Former England manager Terry Venables has died at the age of 80 after 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 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, who also managed Tottenham Hotspur — where he won the FA Cup in 1991– and Barcelona, led England to the semifinals at the 1996 European Championship, which they hosted.
In November 1996, Venables took charge of Australia, leading the Socceroos on an unprecedented run to the final of the 1997 Confederations Cup.
In late 1997, the English tactician was on the touchline for the most infamous match in Socceroos history. Chasing their first World Cup berth in 24 years, Australia held 3-1 aggregate lead over Iran with 15 minutes remaining in the second leg of an intercontinental playoff. However, after a halt in play caused by a lone Australian fan, the Socceroos appeared to lose all momentum and gave up two late goals to the Khodadad Azizi-inspired visitors, losing the tie on away goals. Venables later described the game was “one of the saddest sporting moments of my life.”
Venables also took charge of English sides Crystal Palace and Leeds United in a glittering managerial career.
During his time as Barcelona coach he won LaLiga, ending an 11-year spell without the title, and led them to the European Cup final. Venables was also responsible for bringing British strikers Gary Lineker and Mark Hughes to Camp Nou.
“The best, most innovative coach that I had the privilege and pleasure of playing for,” Lineker, who also played under Venables at Spurs and England, wrote on X. “He was much more, though, than just a great manager, he was vibrant, 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 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. A brilliant man, who made people feel special, I’m very sad to hear of his passing and my thoughts are with Yvette and all of his family.”
Venables started his professional career as a player with Chelsea in 1960 and played for Tottenham, Queens Park Rangers and Crystal Palace before retiring to take over the manager’s role there.
As a player, he made more than 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 had a two-year stint as chief executive of Spurs from 1991 to ’93.
“We are extremely saddened to learn of the passing of Terry Venables, our former player, manager and chief executive, who passed away on Saturday,” Spurs said in a statement.
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