Former England, Barcelona boss Terry Venables dies aged 80،
Former England manager Terry Venables has died aged 80 following a long illness.
The news was announced in a statement released by the League Managers’ Association on behalf of Venables’ family.
It read: “We are totally devastated by the loss of a wonderful husband and father, who passed away peacefully yesterday after a long illness. We ask for privacy at this incredibly sad time to allow us to grieve the loss of this charming man. the one we were lucky to have in our lives.”
Venables, who also managed Tottenham Hotspur – where he won the FA Cup in 1991 – and Barcelona, led England to the semi-finals of the 1996 European Championship, which they hosted.
He also managed English sides Crystal Palace and Leeds United during a successful managerial career.
During his time as Barcelona manager, he won La Liga, ending an 11-year spell without a title, and led them to the European Cup final.
Venables was also responsible for bringing British strikers Gary Lineker and Mark Hughes to the Camp Nou.
“The best and most innovative manager I have had the privilege and pleasure of playing for,” Lineker, who also played under Venables at Spurs and England, wrote on simply a great manager, he was dynamic, he was charming, he was witty, he was a friend.”
England manager Gareth Southgate, who played under Venables for the Three Lions during Euro 96, added: “Any player will have a great affinity with the manager who gave him his opportunity, but he quickly became evident while playing for Terry Venables that he was an exceptional coach and manager. Tactically excellent, he had a wonderful manner, able to manage everyone from the youngest player to the biggest star.
“He was open-minded, forward-thinking, enjoyed life to the fullest and created a brilliant environment with England that allowed his players to flourish and experience one of the most memorable tournaments in history of England. A brilliant man, who made people feel special, I am very sad to hear of his passing and my thoughts are with Yvette and all her family.”
Venables began his professional career as a player at Chelsea in 1960 and played for Tottenham, Queens Park Rangers and Crystal Palace before retiring to take up the role of manager there.
As a player he made over 500 league appearances and won the League Cup with Chelsea in 1965 and the FA Cup with Spurs in 1967. He made two international appearances for England.
Venables also served as general manager of the Spurs for two years, from 1991 to 1993.
“We are extremely saddened to learn of the passing of Terry Venables, our former player, manager and general manager, who passed away on Saturday,” Spurs said in a statement.
