Gary Lineker has described the late Terry Venables as ‘the best, most innovative coach that I had the privilege and pleasure of playing for’ (Photo: Getty)
Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer have lead the tributes to former England manager Terry Venables who has died aged 80 after a long illness.
A statement issued on behalf of his family on Sunday said: ‘We are totally devastated by the loss of a wonderful husband and father who passed away peacefully yesterday after a long illness.’
Tributes have been flooding in for Venables who enjoyed a long career on the pitch and in the dugout with teams including Chelsea, Tottenham, Queens Park Rangers, Barcelona and England – guiding the Three Lions to the semi-final of Euro 96.
‘The Club is extremely saddened to learn of the passing of former player and manager Terry Venables,’ a statement from Tottenham read.
‘Our deepest condolences are with Terry’s friends and family at this incredibly difficult time. Rest in peace, Terry.
‘In tribute, we shall hold a minute’s applause prior to kick-off and our players will wear black armbands during this afternoon’s fixture against Aston Villa.’
Lineker, who played under Venables for Spurs and Barcelona, tweeted: ‘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. Sending love and condolences to Yvette and the family. RIP Terry.’
Former England striker Shearer added: ‘Extremely sad news the great Terry Venables has passed away. RIP Boss. I owe you so much. You were amazing.’
More: Trending
An FA spokesperson said: ‘We are all deeply saddened by the passing of former England manager Terry Venables, a true football icon.
‘As one of the sport’s most charismatic figures, he leaves behind a legacy that captured the imagination of many and enhanced the global reputation of the English game.
‘Today our game mourns the loss of not only a great character but an innovative, forward-thinking manager who was an inspiration to a generation of English players and coaches.’
More to follow…
MORE : Former England manager Terry Venables dies 80 after long illness
MORE : Reece James issues apology to Chelsea fans after ‘silly’ red card against Newcastle
For more stories like this, check our sport page.
Follow Metro Sport for the latest news on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
The former England & Spurs boss has died aged 80