Former Spurs and England manager Terry Venables dies, aged 80

The ex-Three Lions coach passed away after a long illness

EL TEL: Terry Venables led England to the last four at Euro 96. Picture: Phil Cole/Getty Images

Former England, Barcelona and Tottenham manager Terry Venables has died at the age of 80.

As a player he made over 500 appearances for Chelsea, Tottenham, QPR and Crystal Palace but made his real mark as a coach, also managing Crystal Palace and QPR.

"We are totally devastated by the loss of a wonderful husband and father who passed away peacefully yesterday after a long illness," said a family statement.

"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."

In Spain Venables won La Liga in 1984-85 and the FA Cup with Spurs in 1991 but it was his spell as England boss, guiding the team to the semi-final of Euro 96 on home soil after a brilliantly-memorable 4-1 win over the Netherlands only to lose on penalties to Germany.

League Managers' Association chief executive Richard Bevan said: "The LMA is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of LMA member and former LMA president Terry Venables.

"Our thoughts are very much with Yvette and all of Terry's family at this time."