Former Liverpool, Chelsea WSL manager Beard dies aged 47

Former Liverpool and Chelsea manager Matt Beard has died at the age of 47, the two Women’s Super League (WSL) clubs confirmed late on Saturday (September 20).

Beard guided Liverpool to consecutive WSL titles in 2013 and 2014 during his first spell in charge, before returning in 2021 and leading the team back to the top flight after two seasons in the Championship.

He departed Liverpool in February, with his most recent role being a short stint at Burnley between June and August.

“The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Matt’s family and friends at this devastating time,” Liverpool said in a statement.

“Matt was not only an exceptionally dedicated and successful manager, but also a man of great integrity and warmth, who will be remembered with deep affection by all who worked alongside him at the club.”

Beard began his managerial career with Millwall before taking charge of Chelsea in 2009. Over the course of his career, he also managed West Ham United, Boston Breakers, and Bristol City.

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