Steve Bruce will be back on familiar territory when his time as West Bromwich Albion manager begins with his first game in charge at Bramall Lane on Wednesday night.
It was with Sheffield United that Bruce's managerial career began on 2 July 1998 - and it is back to South Yorkshire he goes for his 1,001st game.
"I'll always say thanks to them. They gave my first start at 38," said Bruce.
"To go back couldn't be more difficult, but every game's tough in this league."
Bruce, now aged 61, told BBC Radio WM: "That's what I've always loved about the Championship.