KUALA LUMPUR – As the world of football still mourns the passing of Sir Bobby Charlton, another England legend bids farewell.
One of the most decorated managers in football, Terry Venables, has passed away at the age of 80.
This unfortunate news was announced by his family.
Venables, a football icon, notably for steering the English national team to the semi-finals of Euro 96 on home soil during his managerial tenure from 1994 to 1996.
In a heartfelt family statement, they expressed their devastation, revealing that Venables peacefully departed after battling a prolonged 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,” read the statement.
The football community, including Venables’ former club Tottenham, joined in expressing condolences.
Tottenham, in an official statement, conveyed deep sympathies to Terry’s friends and family.
“The club is extremely saddened to learn of the passing of former player and manager Terry Venables.
“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.”
Venables, also known as “El Tel”, had an illustrious career both as a player and manager.
As a player, he earned two England caps and made over 500 club appearances, prominently for Chelsea, Queens Park Rangers, and Tottenham.
His managerial journey commenced alongside Malcolm Allison at Crystal Palace, where he achieved promotion and later took them to the top flight as champions in 1979.
After successful spells at QPR and a managerial stint at Barcelona, where he secured the La Liga title in 1985, Venables returned to England as the national team manager in 1994.
His leadership saw England qualify for the Euro 96, hosting the tournament. Although England fell short in the semi-finals, Venables left an indelible mark.
Post his England tenure, Venables managed Australia, returned to Crystal Palace, and took charge of Middlesbrough and Leeds United. – November 26, 2023