Ex-England manager Terry Venables dies after fighting long illness

Former England manager Terry Venables passed away over the weekend at the age of 80 after a long illness, according to a statement released by the League Managers' Association on behalf of Venables' family.

The statement 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 managed Tottenham Hotspur and Barcelona, led England to the 1996 European Championship semifinals and led Australia’s Socceroos to the 1997 Confederations Cup final, ESPN reported.

He also led English sides Crystal Palace and Leeds United in a glittering managerial career.

As Barcelona coach, he won La Liga, ending an 11-year spell without the title, and led them to the European Cup final. Venables was also behind the addition of British strikers Gary Lineker and Mark Hughes to Camp Nou.

Lineker called him the "best, most innovative coach that I had the privilege and pleasure of playing for" in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.

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 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's 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 began his professional career with Chelsea in 1960 and played for Tottenham, Queens Park Rangers, and Crystal Palace before retiring to become manager.

He made over 500 league appearances in his career as a player, won the League Cup with Chelsea in 1965 and the FA Cup with Spurs in 1967, and made two international appearances for England.

Venables also served as chief executive of Spurs from 1991 to 1993.

Spurs said in a post on X: "The Club is extremely saddened to learn of the passing of former player and manager Terry Venables."