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Liverpool Women's trip to Aston Villa Women has been postponed following the sudden passing of the former Reds boss Matt Beard, who has died at the age of 47.
"Liverpool Football Club is deeply shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of former LFC Women manager Matt Beard," the club said in a statement on Saturday. "The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Matt’s family and friends at this devastating time."
The WSL fixture, which was scheduled to kick off at 12pm UK time (7am ET) will not be played today. There will be a period of silence observed in Beard's memory at the other WSL and WSL2 games that are played.
Beard enjoyed two spells with Liverpool, winning the Women's Super League titles in 2013 and 2014. He also coached Millwall, Chelsea, West Ham United, Bristol City and Burnley.
Beard left his post at Liverpool in February before taking charge of Burnley. His resignation from the Clarets was confirmed at the end of August.
Beard worked in women's soccer for almost 20 years. He was voted WSL Manager of the Season twice.
The WSL posted on X, saying: "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. Rest in peace, Matt."
The FA said: "We're deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Matt Beard. Matt was a key figure in growing the women's game and will be missed by all.
"Our thoughts go out to his family and friends during this difficult time."
Beard's former club West Ham United said in a statement: "West Ham United is deeply shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of former manager Matt Beard.
"The thoughts and condolences of everyone at the Club are with Matt’s family and friends at this incredibly sad time."
Millwall, where Beard began his career in the professional game, added: "Everybody at the club is deeply saddened by the passing of former Lionesses manager, Matt Beard.
"We send all our love and support to his family, friends and colleagues across the many clubs he managed at this very difficult time."
English (US) ·