Former Liverpool Women’s manager Matt Beard has died aged 47.
Beard won two consecutive Women’s Super League titles in 2013 and 2014 during his first spell with Liverpool.
In his second managerial stint with the club, Beard guided Liverpool to promotion from the Women’s Championship back to the WSL in 2022.
Beard’s wife, Debbie, wrote on social media on Saturday evening: ‘It is with great sadness that our beautiful Matthew Beard has passed away tonight at 7.28pm.
‘He is a loving husband, father, son, brother and uncle. He was the most amazing, caring man who was loved by anyone who had the pleasure to meet him.
Get personalised updates on Liverpool every day
Wake up to find news on your club in your inbox every morning with Metro’s Football Newsletter.
Sign up to our newsletter and then select your team in the link we’ll send you so we can get football news tailored to you.
‘All of our family kindly ask for time to grieve in peace at his loss. We will love you forever, you absolute legend.’
Beard as sacked at the end of February after four years in his second spell with Liverpool. He joined Burnley in June but resigned his position just two months later.
Liverpool said in a statement: ‘Liverpool Football Club is deeply shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of former LFC Women manager Matt Beard.
‘The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Matt’s family and friends at this devastating time.
‘Matt was not only an extremely committed and successful manager, he was also a person of real integrity and warmth, who will always be remembered with genuine fondness by everyone he worked with at the club.’
Beard also had a three-year spell as manager of Chelsea Women’s.
‘Matt was someone who helped shape Chelsea Women during his three years in charge between 2009 and 2012, laying much of the foundations prior to Emma Hayes’ arrival,’ Chelsea’s tribute read.
‘On the pitch, Matt was at the helm as we moved home to Staines Town’s Wheatsheaf Park, entered the new Women’s Super League and guided us to a first Women’s FA Cup final in 2012.
‘But his impact was equally – if not more so – felt off the pitch by his players and everyone involved with Chelsea Women.
‘Players and staff alike speak of a man who wasn’t just your manager, he was your friend. He was a caring and loving person who always made time for people.’
The WSL said: “Everyone at WSL Football extends its deepest sympathies to the family, friends and loved ones of Matt Beard following news of his passing.
‘Matt played an instrumental role in the growth of women’s football and will be missed by everyone associated with the game.’
The FA said: ‘We’re deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Matt Beard. Matt was a key figure in growing the women’s game and will be missed by all. Our thoughts go out to his family and friends during this difficult time.’
For more stories like this, check our sport page.
Follow Metro Sport for the latest news on
Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
MORE: Manchester United fans sing brutal chant at Alejandro Garnacho after Chelsea defeat
MORE: Robert Sanchez sends message to Chelsea fans after red card in Manchester United defeat
MORE: Cole Palmer injury update as Chelsea midfielder is forced off vs Manchester United
