Terry Venables, celebrated for guiding England in their remarkable Euro ’96 journey and former manager of QPR, Tottenham, and Barcelona, has passed away at 80. Gary Lineker pays tribute, lauding him as the “best, most innovative coach.”
Former England manager Terry Venables has died aged 80.
Terry Venables, remembered for leading England to the semi-finals in Euro ’96, had an accomplished career in club management with Crystal Palace, QPR, Barcelona, and Tottenham. As a player, he made an impressive mark with over 500 appearances for Chelsea, Tottenham, QPR, and Crystal Palace.
Beyond his football achievements, Venables also showcased his creative side during his playing years, co-authoring detective novels that inspired the TV series “Hazell.” This series, centered around a cockney private detective, aired for 22 episodes from 1978 to 1979, adding a unique facet to his diverse talents.
The family of Venables has released a statement expressing their profound grief over the passing of a cherished husband and father. They shared that he passed away peacefully following a prolonged illness. During this deeply sorrowful time, the family has requested privacy to grieve the loss of a man they feel incredibly fortunate to have had in their lives.
Tottenham Hotspur, where Venables is a revered figure for winning the FA Cup as both player and manager, honored him with a minute’s applause before their Premier League game against Aston Villa on Sunday.
The club released a statement expressing deep sorrow upon learning of Terry Venables’ passing. They extended their heartfelt condolences to his friends and family during this challenging period. As a mark of respect, a minute’s applause was scheduled before the game’s kick-off, and players wore black armbands during the match against Aston Villa.
“Rest in peace, Terry.”
Neville, Southgate lead tributes to Venables
Gareth Southgate, the current England manager who famously missed a penalty in the Euro ’96 semi-final, paid tribute to Terry Venables, praising him as “a brilliant man” who had the exceptional ability to make individuals feel valued. He highlighted Venables’ tactical prowess, his excellent management of team dynamics, and his progressive, life-affirming approach to coaching, which fostered one of England’s most unforgettable tournaments.
Gary Neville, who made his England debut under Venables, regards him as the premier coach of his entire England tenure. Neville expressed awe at Venables’ strategic versatility, lamenting his departure post-Euro ’96 and celebrating him as the most technically adept British coach in history.
Alan Shearer, the leading force in Venables’ Euro ’96 team, expressed deep sorrow over the loss, crediting Venables with a significant impact on his career and honoring him as “the great Terry Venables.”
Alan Smith, speaking with Sky Sports, reflected on the legacy of Venables, noting that England is only now, under Southgate, reaching the high standards set during Venables’ era. He praised Venables’ ability to cultivate team spirit and create a successful side.
The League Managers Association (LMA) also mourned Venables’ passing, with chief executive Richard Bevan extending condolences to his widow, Yvette, and the Venables family, acknowledging Terry Venables’ significant contributions to football both as an LMA member and former president.
