Former England manager Terry Venables passed away at the age of 80 after a long illness. Venables, who managed England from 1994 to 1996, is best known for leading the team to the semi-finals of Euro 96, which took place in England. He had an illustrious career both as a player and a manager, having also worked with Barcelona and Tottenham.
Venables’ family released a statement expressing their devastation at his loss, describing him as a wonderful husband and father. They have requested privacy during this sorrowful time to mourn the loss of their beloved family member.
Throughout his career, Venables achieved significant success. He won La Liga and reached the European Cup final with Barcelona, as well as lifting the FA Cup with Tottenham. As a player, he earned two England caps and made over 500 club appearances for Chelsea, Queens Park Rangers, and Tottenham.
Many football figures paid tribute to Venables upon hearing the news of his passing. Former England captain Gary Lineker, whom Venables signed for Barcelona and Spurs, described him as more than just a coach or manager, but also a friend. Lineker highlighted Venables’ charm, charisma, wit, and the toughness required in his role. He acknowledged Venables’ exceptional football knowledge and hailed him as an outstanding coach.
Alan Shearer, another former England skipper who played under Venables during Euro 96, expressed his deep sadness and gratitude towards the late manager. Shearer credits Venables for his impactful influence on his career and described him as amazing.
Gareth Southgate, the current England manager, shared his thoughts on Venables, emphasizing his brilliance as a man who made people feel special. Southgate recognized Venables’ exceptional coaching and managerial abilities, noting his tactical excellence and ability to handle players of all levels. He praised Venables for creating an environment that allowed England’s players to flourish during Euro 96, which is regarded as one of the most memorable tournaments in the nation’s history.
Paul Gascoigne, who played under Venables for England and Tottenham, expressed his sorrow at the news and fondly remembered his time with the late manager. Tottenham paid tribute to Venables before their recent Premier League match against Aston Villa, with a minute’s applause and players from both teams wearing black armbands.
Football figures from around the world also shared their admiration for Venables. Gary Neville hailed Venables as the most technically gifted British coach ever produced, crediting him for giving Neville the opportunity to play for his country. Neville considered Venables his number one England coach and expressed sadness that the team did not reach the same heights after Venables left in 1996.
Barcelona, whom Venables managed from 1984 to 1987, expressed their deep regret at his passing and acknowledged his significant contributions during his time with the club. Venables achieved notable successes with Barcelona, including winning the 1985 La Liga title.
Venables’ career in football began as a 15-year-old apprentice at Chelsea, where he made his debut in 1960. He later played for Tottenham, QPR, and Crystal Palace, amassing over 200 league appearances for Chelsea and winning the League Cup. After retiring as a player, Venables transitioned into coaching, starting at Crystal Palace and eventually moving on to manage clubs like QPR and Tottenham. He was recommended for the Barcelona managerial position by England boss Bobby Robson.
Venables’ career was not without its challenges, and he faced setbacks along the way. His tenure at Tottenham ended in 1993 following a breakdown of his relationship with the chairman. Additionally, he was overlooked for the England manager position in 1990 before finally being appointed in 1994. After leaving the England set-up in 1996, he went on to manage Australia, Palace again, Middlesbrough, and Leeds United. Venables made a brief return to the England set-up in 2006 as assistant to Steve McClaren but left following England’s failure to qualify for Euro 2008.
Terry Venables, fondly nicknamed ‘El Tel,’ leaves behind a lasting legacy in the world of football. His innovative coaching style, tactical brilliance, and ability to create a positive and nurturing environment for his players will forever be remembered and celebrated.
