Terry Venables, former England, Barcelona manager, dies at 80

Former England and Barcelona manager Terry Venables has passed away at the age of 80 following a prolonged illness.

Venables led the Three Lions from 1994 to 1996, most notably guiding them to the semi-finals of Euro 96 on home soil. He also had spells in charge of Tottenham and Australia.

In a family statement, his loved ones said: “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.”

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The League Managers’ Association (LMA) expressed their condolences, saying: “The LMA is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of LMA member and former LMA president Terry Venables. Our thoughts are very much with Yvette and all of Terry’s family at this time.”

Venables began his career as a midfielder, earning two England caps and making over 500 appearances for Chelsea, QPR, and Tottenham between 1960 and 1975. After retiring as a player, he embarked on a successful coaching career.

Former England captain Gary Lineker, who played under Venables at Barcelona, said: “Devastated to hear that Terry Venables has died. The best, most innovative coach that I had the privilege and pleasure of playing for. He was much more, though, than just a great manager. He was vibrant, he was charming, he was witty, he was a friend. He’ll be hugely missed.”

Ex-England captain Alan Shearer, a member of the Euro 96 squad, added: “Extremely sad news. The great Terry Venables has passed away. RIP Boss. I owe you so much. You were amazing.”

Tottenham Hotspur announced they will hold a minute’s applause before their Premier League match against Aston Villa on Sunday and players will wear black armbands in memory of Venables.

The club said: “The club is extremely saddened to learn of the passing of former player and manager Terry Venables. Our deepest condolences are with Terry’s friends and family at this incredibly difficult time.”

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