Former Liverpool Women’s manager Matt Beard dies aged 47

Matt Beard has died aged 47 (PA Wire)

Former Liverpool Women’s manager Matt Beard has died aged 47.

Beard guided Liverpool to two consecutive Women’s Super League titles in 2013 and 2014.

In his second managerial stint with Liverpool, Beard guided the team to promotion back to the WSL in 2022.

Beard’s wife, Debbie, wrote on social media: ‘It is with great sadness that our beautiful Matthew Beard has passed away tonight [Saturday] 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.

Matt Beard guided Liverpool to the WSL title in 2013 and 2014 (The FA via Getty)

‘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 Beard with his wife Debbie after Liverpool won the FA Women’s Championship Trophy in 2022 (The FA via Getty)

‘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.’

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.’

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