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Former Liverpool star Fara Williams was consoled by her colleagues, including presenter Alex Scott, as she delivered an emotional tribute to Matt Beard, who died over the weekend.
The soccer community has been inundated with tributes following news of the 47-year-old's death. Beard managed Liverpool Women between 2012 and 2015, and again between 2021 and 2025.
Beard secured the Women's Super League crown twice during his first spell at Liverpool in 2013 and 2014, and also claimed the Women's Championship trophy in 2022. Liverpool announced the devastating news in a statement on Saturday, describing Beard as "a person of real integrity and warmth, who will always be remembered with genuine fondness by everyone he worked with at the club."
He left Liverpool last summer and many of his former players have paid tribute, including Williams, who was on BBC duty on Sunday.
"It's a tough day," she started. "I tried to speak a little bit about him on Five Live a bit earlier, it's difficult.
"Steph (Houghton) said it there, he meant so much to all of us. He will be missed."
At this moment, Houghton and presenter Alex Scott paused to offer Williams comfort as they both reached out to touch her arms.
"Matt was a leader, he was a mentor, and he was a manager," said Scott.
"His love for the game will leave a lasting impact on the game.
"Everyone at BBC sends their deepest sympathies to Matt's family, friends and his loved ones and everyone in the football community at this difficult time."
Deb, the wife of Beard, posted a moving tribute 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.
"All of our family kindly ask for time to grieve in peace at his loss. We will love you forever, you absolute legend."
English (US) ·