Matt Beard, the former manager of Liverpool Women, has died at the age of 47, the Women's Super League club has announced. Liverpool expressed deep shock and sadness at the news of his sudden passing.
Beard guided Liverpool to two consecutive WSL titles in 2013 and 2014 during his first spell at the club. In his second spell, he led the team to promotion back to the top flight. He is the most successful manager in Liverpool Women's history.
Beard's wife, Deb, confirmed his death on social media, describing him as a loving husband, father, son, brother and uncle. She said: 'He was the most amazing, caring man who was loved by anyone who had the pleasure to meet him.'
Liverpool said in a statement: '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.'
Beard, who also managed West Ham, Bristol City, Chelsea and Boston Breakers, was named WSL manager of the year in 2013 and 2014. He most recently managed Burnley, resigning in August 2025 after being appointed in June.
The Women's Super League paid tribute, saying Beard 'played an instrumental role in the growth of women's football and will be missed by everyone associated with the game.'
