Former England manager Terry Venables passes away aged 80

The football world mourns the loss of Terry Venables, former England manager, who passed away over the weekend at the age of 80 after a prolonged illness.

Venables' passing was announced by the League Managers' Association in a statement on behalf of Venables' family, expressing their devastation and asking for privacy during this difficult time.

The football legend had a successful career as a manager, leading Tottenham Hotspur, Barcelona, Crystal Palace and Leeds United. He is best known for leading England to the semifinals of the 1996 European Championship and for leading Australia’s Socceroos to the 1997 Confederations Cup final.

As Barcelona coach, Venables made history by winning La Liga after an 11-year drought. He also guided the team to the European Cup final and played a key role in bringing Gary Lineker and Mark Hughes to Camp Nou, according to ESPN.

Venables is remembered as a great football manager who left an indelible mark on the sport.

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."