Liverpool’s Women’s Super League match against Aston Villa has been postponed following the tragic passing of former Reds manager Matt Beard. The game was set to take place in the West Midlands on Sunday, with a 12pm kick-off. However, following the sudden death of Beard at the age of 47 on Saturday, it was decided that the match would not proceed.
In a statement, Aston Villa said: “Following yesterday’s devastating news of Matt Beard’s passing, our Barclays WSL fixture with Liverpool has been postponed.” Liverpool also confirmed that details of the rescheduled match would be announced “in due course”. Beard had a successful tenure at Liverpool, leading them to Women’s Super League glory twice, first in 2013 and again in 2014.
He managed the Reds on two occasions, his first stint ending in 2015 before he returned to Merseyside six years later after spells at Boston Breakers, West Ham and Bristol City.
During the 2021/22 season, he guided Liverpool back to the WSL and re-established them as a formidable force in the top tier.
However, despite winning 50 and drawing 19 of his 103 matches during his second spell, Beard left Liverpool abruptly in February this year.
He then took up the role of head coach at Burnley in June but stepped down last month to explore other opportunities. He was heavily linked with the vacant position at Leicester City.
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Liverpool FC paid their respects to Matt Beard, who tragically passed away at the age of 47 on Saturday. The club released a statement saying: “The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Matt’s family and friends at this devastating time.
“Matt was not only an extremely committed and successful manager, he was also a person of real integrity and warmth, who will always be remembered with genuine fondness by everyone he worked with at the club.”
The Women’s Super League also expressed their condolences via their social media account, stating: “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.”
Leeds United Women shared their sentiments, saying: “Everyone at Leeds United sends our heartfelt condolences to Matt’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time. Our thoughts are with you all. Rest in peace, Matt.”
Arsenal Women extended their support, stating: “Everyone at Arsenal sends love, support and condolences to Matt’s family and friends at this difficult time. Rest in peace [love heart emoji].”
Leicester City Women added their condolences, saying: “Everyone at Leicester City extends their deepest condolences to Matt’s family and friends at this sad time.”
A wave of tributes from former and current players, as well as other football clubs, followed as the football community mourned the loss of the ex-Reds manager.
