Former Chelsea, Tottenham and England Player Terry Venables Passes Away at 80 After Long-Term Illness

At the age of 80, Terry Venables, a former player for Chelsea and Tottenham who later managed England, has passed away after a prolonged battle with illness.

Venables led the Three Lions during Euro 96, where he guided them to the semi-final, and also managed Barcelona and Tottenham during his career.

A family statement announced: “We are deeply saddened by the loss of a beloved husband and father who peacefully passed away yesterday after a long illness. We kindly request privacy during this very sad time to allow us to mourn the loss of this wonderful man who we were fortunate to have in our lives.”

In a statement, League Managers Association chief Richard Bevan expressed: “The LMA is saddened by the passing of LMA member and former LMA President Terry Venables. Our thoughts are with Yvette and all of Terry’s family at this time.”

Upon learning about Venables’ passing before Tottenham’s match against Aston Villa, the club released a statement: “The Club is deeply saddened by the passing of former player and manager Terry Venables. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Terry’s friends and family during this incredibly challenging time.

“In honor of him, we will observe a minute’s applause before kick-off and our players will wear black armbands during this afternoon’s fixture against Aston Villa. Rest in peace, Terry.”

Venables left school in the summer of 1958 and joined Chelsea at the age of 15. After six years with the club, he moved to Spurs and played for the North London team until 1969.

He later returned to Tottenham as a manager in 1987 and went on to become the England boss in 1994.