The club confirmed on Thursday in the lead-up to Sunday's clash against the Brisbane Lions at the Gabba that leadership group members McDonald and Bruce would take over as joint captains for the next eight matches.
Melbourne's leadership group, in discussion with its coaching staff, "strongly agreed" McDonald and Bruce should be given the opportunity to lead the club.
It is a great reward for McDonald, who has won the past two Keith 'Bluey' Truscott Trophies - Melbourne's best-and-fairest award - and for Bruce, who has been a fine player for the Demons since debuting in 2000.
Along with Neitz, McDonald and Bruce, the remaining members of Melbourne's leadership group are Russell Robertson, Adem Yze and Brad Miller.
Brock McLean was previously in this year's group, but was suspended indefinitely from the position following an off-field incident in March.
Neitz, who confirmed earlier in the week he would retire from the AFL at the end of the 2008 season, will return as captain once he's overcome his injury.
The club's games record holder was officially placed on Melbourne's long-term injury list on Thursday.
