Former England manager Terry Venables dies aged 80
Former England manager Terry Venables has died at the age of 80 after a long illness.
Venables managed England from 1994 to 1996, most notably leading them to the semi-finals of Euro 96 on home soil.
“We are totally devastated by the loss of a wonderful husband and father who passed away peacefully yesterday after a long illness,” read a family statement.
“We would ask that privacy be given at this incredibly sad time to allow us to mourn the loss of this lovely man who we were so lucky to have had in our lives.”
Venables won La Liga and reached the European Cup final with Barcelona, and lifted the FA Cup with Tottenham.
As a player, he won two England caps and made more than 500 club appearances between 1960 and 1975, largely for Chelsea, Queens Park Rangers and Tottenham.
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‘The best, most innovative coach’
Former England captain Gary Lineker, whom Venables signed for Barcelona and Spurs, told the BBC: “He was not a coach or just a manager but a friend. He was charming, charismatic, witty but he was also tough – and that’s what you needed to be.
“He understood football – he had an incredible football brain.”
Ex-England skipper Alan Shearer, a member of the Euro 96 side, said: “Extremely sad news. The great Terry Venables has passed away. RIP Boss. I owe you so much. You were amazing.”
Current England manager Gareth Southgate, whose penalty in the semi-final shootout defeat by Germany was saved, described Venables as “a brilliant man who made people feel special”.
He said: “Any player will have great affinity with the manager that gave them their opportunity, but it was quickly evident playing for Terry Venables that he was an outstanding coach and manager.
“Tactically excellent, he had a wonderful manner, capable of handling everyone from the youngest player to the biggest star.
“He was open-minded, forward-thinking, enjoyed life to the full and created a brilliant environment with England that allowed his players to flourish and have one of the most memorable tournaments in England history.”
Paul Gascoigne, who played under Venables for England and Tottenham, said: “Such a sad day, cheers boss.”
Read more on BBC
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