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    Inside hidden Spanish hotel once owned by ex-England manager Terry Venables – fit with former football pitch lawn

    EX-ENGLAND manager Terry Venables once owned a hidden Spanish hotel – complete with a lawn doubling as a football pitch.Tributes have flooded in for Euro 96 boss Venables after he died at the age of 80 following a long illness.
    Terry Venables ran a hotel in Spain after retiringCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
    He managed La Escondida with his wife Yvette
    The hotel boasted a cocktail terraceCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
    Venables laughing at the breakfast tableCredit: Rex
    The hotel was hidden away in the countryside near AlicanteCredit: Rex
    “El Tel” fell in love with Spain after taking the helm at Barcelona in 1984.
    Under his leadership, Barca went on to win La Liga in 1985 and reached the European Cup final in 1986.
    Venables and his wife Yvette returned to Spain after he retired from football management.
    The couple opened La Escondida hotel and restaurant in Penaguila near Alicante in 2014.
    Read More Terry Venables
    The ten-room hotel’s name translated to “The Hidden One”, and guests had to navigate winding lanes and olive groves to reach it.
    La Escondida boasted a terrace looking over a poolside lawn – which Venables claimed had once been a football pitch.
    Terry and Yvette kept the hotel’s original stonework and beams, which dated from 1891.
    They invited guests to enjoy breakfast and cocktails on the terrace, where they could watch shepherds gather their flocks on the hills beyond.
    Most read in Football
    One guest was treated to a delicious meal by Venables – despite appearing to have no idea who he was.
    Writing in Luxury and Boutique Hotels, the oblivious guest said: “The British chef creates delicious dishes with the unusual mix of refined presentation and decent portion size.
    “The tasty in-between course treats were an unexpected bonus.
    They added: “Breakfast on the terrace was leisurely and glorious.
    “The aromas from the lavender beds and views of the almond groves created a wonderful ambience to the generous a la carte menu – plus additional buffet style choices should you want more.
    “The service from all the team was exemplary; friendly, informative and helpful.”
    Venables was happy to pose for photos with guests, with many taking to social media with snaps after news of his death broke today.
    The couple sold the hotel in 2019 when they decided to retire and move back to the UK.
    England legend Venables leaves behind his wife Yvette after a 32-year-long marriage.
    Three Lions manager Gareth Southgate has shared a heartwarming tribute to his “outstanding” former coach Terry Venables.
    Many of the players from Venables’s Euro 96 team also offered tributes to their boss.
    Terry and Yvette restored the hotel’s 19th-century stonework and beamsCredit: Handout
    The view from the cocktail terrace
    La Escondida’s name means ‘The Hidden One’ in EnglishCredit: Handout
    The hotel had an indoor and outdoor poolCredit: Handout
    El Tel enjoying the Spanish sunset one eveningCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd More

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    Inside England legend Terry Venables’ relationship with wife Yvette – from meeting in his Dad’s boozer to courtroom woes

    ENGLAND legend Terry Venables leaves behind his wife Yvette after a 32-year-long marriage.Tributes have flooded in for Euro 96 boss Venables after he died at the age of 80 following a long illness.
    Terry Venables and his wife Yvette toasting his appointment as England managerCredit: Rex
    The couple at home with Terry’s childrenCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
    Yvette managed Terry’s Kensington dining clubCredit: Rex
    The couple at the memorial service for Bobby Moore in 1993Credit: Rex
    Yvette called Terry the man of her dreamsCredit: Rex
    His family said: “We are totally devastated by the loss of a wonderful husband and father who passed away peacefully yesterday after a long illness.
    “We would ask that privacy be given at this incredibly sad time to allow us to mourn the loss of this lovely man who we were so lucky to have had in our lives.”
    Venables met his wife Yvette in his father’s pub in Chingford, Essex in 1984.
    She accompanied the footballing icon to Barcelona when he was appointed as their manager, with the couple marrying in 1991.
    Read More Terry Venables
    Yvette supported Terry after he was dismissed from his job as chief executive of Tottenham Hotspur by the club’s owner Alan Sugar in 1993.
    Terry was reinstated after gaining a temporary injunction – but went to lose a three-day High Court battle, with the judge ordering him to pay Sugar’s costs.
    Yvette also managed Terry’s Kensington dining club, Scribes West for seven years.
    However, the couple decided to sell it in 1997.
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    Terry and Yvette later ran a boutique hotel and restaurant in Alicante, Spain.
    In a 1996 interview, Yvette said: “Terry has more than fulfilled all my romantic aspirations of what the man of my dreams would be like.
    “He is my best friend and confidant as well as my husband, and I don’t think any woman could ask for more.
    “I could certainly never have imagined what the future would bring when Terry and I first set eyes on each other.
    “But to this day I wouldn’t have changed anything.”
    Yvette welcomed Terry’s two grown-up daughters from his previous marriage to Christine McCann – while giving up her own own hopes of having children.
    She said: “I love children. But the one thing I would never do would be to jeopardise my relationship with Terry.
    “And I do think that babies can alter the balance in a marriage.”
    Yvette added: “Terry does nothing for himself at home. He wouldn’t know where the hoover was, let alone what to do with it.
    “He doesn’t do the washing-up, nothing.
    “And it’s probably my fault. His mum used to do everything for him and he’s got into that routine. It really doesn’t bother me.
    “If I was to say to him, ‘Oh, please pick up your shirt and put it in the washing machine’, I’m sure he’d do it.
    “But I’d never, ever put him in that position.”
    Despite being married to the Three Lions legend, Yvette hated being in the limelight.
    She said: “I particularly dislike going to big functions.
    “I never feel comfortable and dislike the fact that everyone is saying, ‘Oh look, there’s the England coach’, and then looking at me to see what his wife is like.”
    But Yvette added: “Terry is my best friend and I’m his. He’s the centre of my life.
    “He is also honest, kind and thoughtful, and we both share a good sense of humour.
    “It’s really important to be able to laugh, even when things get you down.”
    England manager Gareth Southgate has shared a heartwarming tribute to his “outstanding” former coach Terry Venables. More

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    Tottenham pay emotional tribute to Terry Venables with pre-match applause and black armbands vs Aston Villa

    TOTTENHAM have paid an emotional tribute to their former boss and player Terry Venables who has died aged 80. Ahead of their Premier League clash against Aston Villa a minute’s applause was held at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
    Tottenham and Aston Villa players led a minutes applauseCredit: AFP
    Credit: Reuters
    Tottenham captain Son Heung-Min was among the players sporting a black armbandCredit: Getty
    Spurs and Villa players also wore black armbands in honour of the legendary boss.
    Venables’ family published the news of his death on Sunday morning.
    As both a player and manager at Tottenham a minute’s applause was held before their clash against Aston Villa on Sunday afternoon in North London.
    Ange Postecoglou’s side with Unai Emery’s squad applauded the England legend alongside fans.
    READ MORE ON VENABLES
    Spurs released a statement ahead of the tribute which read: “The Club is extremely saddened to learn of the passing of former player and manager Terry Venables.
    “Our deepest condolences are with Terry’s friends and family at this incredibly difficult time.
    “In tribute, we shall hold a minute’s applause prior to kick-off and our players will wear black armbands during this afternoon’s fixture against Aston Villa.
    “Rest in peace, Terry 🤍.”
    Most read in Football
    Terry won the FA Cup as a player and manager for Spurs in 1966-67 and in 1990-91 respectively.
    Then as a midfielder, Venables made over 500 appearances for Chelsea, Tottenham, QPR and Crystal Palace as a player.
    Venables then turned to a career in managing and led Crystal Palace, QPR, Barcelona and Tottenham to great achievements in club football.
    The Englishman was then best known for managing England and leading the Three Lions to the semi-finals at Euro 1996.
    He also managed the Australian National team from 1997-98.
    Fellow Aussie and Spurs boss Postecoglou also released a statement prior to the game on Sky Sports.
    He said: “If you are asking about a person who embodies everything this football club has always wanted to be, it is Terry.
    “It wasn’t just about the way he managed or coached, it was the person he was.
    “He influenced Australia as well. He was the manager of the national team and almost got us to the World Cup.
    “But the biggest testament is that anyone who I have ever come across that has worked with him will say he is by far the best coach, manager and tactician they have come across.”
    Terry Venables has died aged 80Credit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
    Venables played and managed at Tottenham – winning the FA Cup in both rolesCredit: Getty More

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    Gary Neville recalls Terry Venables’ amazing reaction to Euro 96 dentist chair incident that summed up England icon

    GARY NEVILLE has recalled the reaction that Terry Venables had to England’s Euro 96 dentist chair incident. The iconic manager sadly passed away yesterday at the age of 80 after a long illness and tributes from those in his life have been flooding in ever since.
    Gary Neville has recalled Terry Venables’ brilliant reaction to the ‘dentist’s chair’ incident before Euro 96Credit: PA
    Terry Venables sadly passed away on SaturdayCredit: Jamie McPhilimey – The Sun
    Neville played under Venables for EnglandCredit: Reuters
    Neville played under Venables for the England national team and took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his sadness at the loss of a footballing legend and tell a memorable story.
    The former Manchester United right-back was part of the England team for Euro 1996 which was hosted on home soil.
    And the Three Lions had an iconic moment in their pre-tournament trip to Hong Kong when players were snapped in the “dentist’s chair” in a bar.
    England’s finest were seen with their head’s tipped back having alcohol poured directly into their mouths.
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    But despite the compromising photos, Venables stuck up for his team and Neville reckons that summed him up as a manager and as a man.
    He wrote: “He was an unbelievable personality and character, larger than life.
    “He was someone who was a player’s man, looked after his players, stood up for his players in big situations like the pre-96 trip to Hong Kong and the dentist chair incident.
    “He was someone who the players trusted and had great faith in and he always spoke openly,
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    “And he was a personality that was far too big for the then rigid and stiff FA football association and that’s why they got rid of him after Euro 96 and why the relationship ended.”
    Teddy Sheringham was seen on the dentist’s chair having booze poured down his neckCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
    Paul Gascoigne recreated the scene with his celebration against Scotland in the Euro 96 tournamentCredit: Getty Images – Getty
    Neville was also full of praise for his former gaffer’s tactical ability as he labelled him as Britain’s most gifted coach.
    He wrote: “So sorry to hear the news of my very first England coach, Terry Venables.
    “A man who gave me a chance to play for my country and became without a shadow of doubt my number one England coach in my whole career.”
    He added: “I sit here today thinking back to my special times with Terry and can say he is without doubt the most technically gifted British coach we’ve ever produced.”
    Terry Venables enjoyed a superb managerial career taking charge of England, Barcelona, Tottenham, QPR and even more top flight teams.
    And his family confirmed his heartbreaking passing in a statement that read: ” We are totally devastated by the loss of a wonderful husband and father who passed away peacefully yesterday after a long illness.
    “We would ask that privacy be given at this incredibly sad time to allow us to mourn the loss of this lovely man who we were so lucky to have had in our lives.”
    Neville praised Venables for being a ‘player’s man’Credit: Getty
    Venables took charge of England from 1994 to 1996 and rejoined as an assistant from 2006 to 2007Credit: AFP More

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    England manager Gareth Southgate shares heartwarming tribute to ‘outstanding’ former coach Terry Venables

    ENGLAND manager Gareth Southgate has shared a heartwarming tribute to his “outstanding” former coach Terry Venables.Three Lions legend Venables has died at the age of 80 after a long illness.
    Venables consoling Gareth Southgate at Euro 96Credit: Action Images
    Gareth Southgate led tributes to Venables, who famously consoled him after he missed a penalty as England crashed out of Euro 96.
    Southgate said: “Any player will have great affinity with the manager that gave them their opportunity, but it was quickly evident playing for Terry Venables that he was an outstanding coach and manager.
    “He was open minded, forward thinking, enjoyed life to the full and created a brilliant environment with England that allowed his players to flourish and have one of the most memorable tournaments in England history.
    “A brilliant man, who made people feel special, I’m very sad to hear of his passing and my thoughts are with Yvette and all of his family.”
    Read More Terry Venables
    Venables’ passing has been confirmed by the League Managers Association, but his cause of death is not yet known.
    His family said: “We are totally devastated by the loss of a wonderful husband and father who passed away peacefully yesterday after a long illness.
    Three Lions legends including Gary Lineker, Alan Shearer, David Seaman, Gary Neville, Neil Ruddock, Paul Gascoigne and Stan Collymore also paid tribute to Venables on social media.
    Lineker said: “Devastated to hear that Terry Venables has died.
    Most read in Football
    “The best, most innovative coach that I had the privilege and pleasure of playing for.
    “He was much more, though, than just a great manager, he was vibrant, he was charming, he was witty, he was a friend.
    “He’ll be hugely missed. Sending love and condolences to Yvette and the family. RIP Terry.”
    Shearer said: “Extremely sad news the great Terry Venables has passed away.
    “RIP Boss. I owe you so much. You were amazing.”
    Neville said: “So sorry to hear the news of my very first England coach, Terry Venables.
    “A man who gave me a chance to play for my country and became without a shadow of doubt my number one England coach in my whole career.”
    Ruddock said: “Incredibly sad to hear about Terry Venables. A great man who always made time for my family.
    “He could give me a rollocking at half time, but still make me feel on top of the world.
    “He was the best Manager I played for. God bless Gaffer & thank you.”
    Seaman said: “Dear Terry, you’ll be sadly missed, you told me I was your England Number one and I’ll never ever forget that.”
    Collymore said: “Incredibly sad to hear of the passing of Terry Venables today.
    “Our thoughts are with Terry’s family and friends at this sad time.”
    “He made my dream come true of representing my country which I could never really thank him enough for.
    “Vivacious, funny, a superb coach, multi talented, a man who really lived life to its fullest. Rest in Peace, Terry.”
    Gascoigne said: “Such a sad day, cheers boss.” More

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    Terry Venables death updates — Lineker, Shearer & England pay tributes as legend dies aged 80 after long illness

    TRIBUTES have flooded in following the death of English football icon Terry Venables aged 80.Venables had a long and successful career in European football both as a player and coach, managing England, Barcelona and Tottenham Hotspur during his time in the game.
    As a coach Venables would begin an era of success for Barcelona, where he earned the nickname ‘El Tel’, winning La Liga and the European Cup, while as manager of Spurs, he would win the FA Cup in 1990.
    Speaking about Venables’ time as England coach, current Three Lions manager Gareth Southgate, said: “Terry opened my eyes to things that no one else has. He has fantastic tactical awareness. Every senior player in the group went away having learnt a lot from him, which is an achievement.”
    In a statement, Terry’s family said: “We are totally devastated by the loss of a wonderful husband and father who passed away peacefully yesterday after a long illness. We would ask that privacy be given at this incredibly sad time to allow us to mourn the loss of this lovely man who we were so lucky to have had in our lives.”
    Read our live blog below for the latest news and updates…
    Venables – ‘A great football man’
    Mark Crossley has hailed Terry Venables and said that Brian Clough is waiting for him in heaven.

    Inside Venables’ former hotel
    Terry Venables once owned a hidden Spanish hotel – complete with a lawn doubling as a football pitch.
    “El Tel” fell in love with Spain after taking the helm at Barcelona in 1984.
    Venables and his wife Yvette returned to Spain after he retired from football management.
    The couple opened La Escondida hotel and restaurant in Penaguila near Alicante in 2014.
    Credit: Times Newspapers Ltd

    United pays tribute to Venables

    Carragher spots Pep picture
    Jamie Carragher has spotted a picture of a young Pep Guardiola looking at Terry Venables.
    The snap was taken after Venables led Barcelona to victory over IFK Goteborg in the semi-final of the 1985/86 European Cup.
    The now Manchester City manager was only 15 years old at the time.

    Terry and Yvette
    Here are some more snaps of Terry and Yvette.
    Credit: Getty
    Credit: PA:Press Association

    Venables leaves behind wife
    Terry Venables has left behind his wife Yvette after a 32-year-long marriage.
    Venables met his wife Yvette in his father’s pub in Chingford, Essex in 1984.
    She accompanied the footballing icon to Barcelona when he was appointed as their manager, with the couple marrying in 1991.

    Stevens ‘learned so much’ from Venables
    Former Tottenham star Gary Stevens has admitted that he learned so much from Terry Venables despite being let go from the club by the manager.
    He also revealed that Venables helped him gain his Uefa pro licence a few years later.

    Foxes send condolences
    Leicester City have posted their tribute to Terry Venables on social media.

    Bruno takes to social media
    Boxing legend Frank Bruno has recalled a story of being called “big man” by Terry Venables in his tribute.

    Gazza’s ostrich story with Venables
    Paul Gascoigne was once able to get out of a telling-off from Terry Venables thanks to an Ostrich in a Tottenham shirt.
    Paul Stewart recalled the story after Steve Sedgley, nicknamed “long neck”, joined the club.
    In an extract with The Chronicle, he said: “One day, whilst Venners was taking training, all the players were on the pitch in a circle around the halfway line. Gazza was late.
    As always, the boss was asking me where he was, like I was his minder. Just as I was about to make an excuse, Gazza turned up with someone alongside him, carrying a brown sack. The sack was moving as if something was in it.
    “And just as Venners was about to rollick Gazza for being late, the bag opened and an ostrich ran out wearing a Spurs shirt. There was a number seven and Sedgley written on the back. The lads just fell about laughing.
    “Everyone, the kids, the training staff, the apprentices, stood open-mouthed or in hysterics. Venables’ face was a picture. The bird went running off in a panic and he had some job getting it back.
    “I am not too sure what the animal rights people would say if they knew that Gazza had a bird from the local zoo dressed in a Spurs shirt loose on the training ground. He claimed that he had ‘borrowed’ it from Broxbourne Zoo. We were never able to verify if that was the case.”
    Credit: PA
    Palace release statement
    Crystal Palace have released a statement on the passing of Terry Venables.
    Crystal Palace are mourning the loss of influential former midfielder and manager Terry Venables, who has passed away at the age of 80.
    A statement released from the Venables family confirmed he passed away on Saturday after a long illness.
    Hailing from east London, Venables signed for Palace from Tottenham in 1974, playing 16 games for the club before being handed a coaching role by Malcolm Allison. Palace subsequently reached the 1976 FA Cup semi-finals and, that summer, Venables rose in rank to become manager.
    In 1976/77, Palace gained promotion from the third to the second division, a major accomplishment considering Venables’ short tenure.
    Furthering his success, Palace won promotion to the top-flight as Second Division champions in 1978/79, as Venables built the youthful, exciting team hailed the Eagles’ ‘Team of the Eighties’ – one of the most exciting epochs in the club’s rich history.
    In Venables’ first season as a top-flight manager, Palace topped the English football pyramid for the first and only time in September 1979. They ended the 1979/80 season in 13th place, at the time the club’s highest-ever league finish.
    Following spells with Queens Park Rangers, Barcelona, Tottenham, England and Australia, Venables returned to Palace for a brief second spell as manager in summer 1998.
    The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Terry’s family at this time.Crystal PalaceClub statement
    More players pay tribute

    Venables ‘great man’
    Former England and Arsenal goalkeeper David Seaman has paid tribute to Terry Venables in which he has hailed him as a “great man”.

    Wolves join tributes
    Wolverhampton Wanderers have joined the host of Premier League clubs that have paid tribute to Terry Venables.

    Spurs clap for Venables
    Terry Venables won the FA Cup as a player and a manager of Tottenham.
    Here are some more images of how he has been remembered ahead of the Premier League fixture against Aston Villa.
    Credit: Reuters
    Credit: PA
    Venables remembered at Tottenham
    Terry Venables’ image was displayed at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium ahead of the clash against Aston Villa.
    Players also paid tribute before the game by wearing black armbands.
    There has also been a minutes appulse for the footballing icon.
    Credit: Reuters
    Credit: Getty
    Kammy left ‘gutted’
    Chris Kamara has said he is “gutted” following the news of Terry Venables’ death.

    Southgate shares heartwarming tribute for Venables
    England manager Gareth Southgate has shared a heartwarming tribute for Terry Venables.
    Venables managed England between 1994 and 1996.
    Any player will have great affinity with the manager that gave them their opportunity, but it was quickly evident playing for Terry Venables that he was an outstanding coach and manager
    He was open minded, forward thinking, enjoyed life to the full and created a brilliant environment with England that allowed his players to flourish and have one of the most memorable tournaments in England history.
    A brilliant man, who made people feel special, I’m very sad to hear of his passing and my thoughts are with Yvette and all of his family.Gareth Southgate

    FA Cup statement
    Terry Venables won the FA Cup as a player and as a manager.
    Both achievements came while he was at Tottenham.

    More from Neville
    Gary Neville has spoken on more on the passing of Terry Venables.
    He said on Sky Sports: “One of my great disappointments was that he was unable to continue after Euro 96. That was a great sad thing.
    “He was onto something special with talents like Gascoigne and Ince.
    “I had never played under a coach like Terry Venables, he would almost predict the outcome of games.
    “I think I have no doubts that he was the most technically gifted cosh that England have ever produced.
    “I think he will be remembered as an England man.”
    Credit: Sky Sports More

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    Who was Terry Venables and what was his net worth?

    TERRY Venables was the much-loved England manager who took the Three Lions to the semi-finals at the ’96 Euros.Here’s what we know about the life of “El Tel” and his glittering career — on and off the football pitch.
    Terry Venables took the Three Lions to the Euro 1996 semi-finals, the summer football was “coming home”Credit: PA
    Who was Terry Venables? 
    Terence “Terry” Venables, a professional footballer, manager, and author, has sadly died at the age of 80. 
    Synonymous with English football, Terry — also known as El Tel — is best known for taking the Three Lions team to the Euro 1996 semi-final against Germany. 
    Born in Dagenham, East London, on January 6, 1943, to parents Fred and Myrtle, Terry was an only child. 
    His father was a petty officer in the Navy, and from Barking, while his mother was Welsh. 
    Read more in football
    In 1956, his parents moved to Essex to open a pub, Terry went to live with his grandparents Ossie and Milly, who encouraged his interest in football.
    After earning a cap for the England Schoolboys team, Terry went on to play professionally for various English clubs, and the English national team, before moving on to football management. 
    Terry married his first wife, Christine McCann, in 1966, while he was playing for Chelsea. 
    The pair, who had met when they were just 16, had two daughters together, Tracey and Nancy, before an amicable divorce in 1984. 
    Most read in Football
    He met his second wife, Yvette Bazire, in 1984, around the time he moved to Barcelona as a manager, before the pair tied the knot in 1991.
    What was Terry Venables’ net worth?
    Terry Venables had an estimated net worth of between $1 million and $5 million, or just under £4 million. 
    Terry held a series of high-profile managerial positions in football, including a move to Crystal Palace in 1998, where he earned a £750,000 a year salary. 
    The manager also had a stint at the helm of the Australian national team, for which he was paid £200,000 a year.
    What was Terry Venables’ cause of death?
    The League Managers Association have confirmed that Terry has died, although the cause of death has not yet been confirmed at the time of writing. 
    There has been some speculation that Terry had been suffering from Alzheimer’s disease.  
    Terry’s family have said: “We are totally devastated by the loss of a wonderful husband and father who passed away peacefully yesterday after a long illness.
    “We would ask that privacy be given at this incredibly sad time to allow us to mourn the loss of this lovely man who we were so lucky to have had in our lives.”
    Tributes poured in on Twitter — Gary Lineker, who played under Terry’s management at Spurs, Barcelona, and England, said: 
    “Devastated to hear that Terry Venables has died. The best, most innovative coach that I had the privilege and pleasure of playing for. He was much more, though, than just a great manager, he was vibrant, he was charming, he was witty, he was a friend.”
    Terry’s former club, Tottenham Hotspur, released a statement on Twitter, announcing plans to mark the former boss’s passing at the start of their match on Sunday, November 26: 
    “The Club is extremely saddened to learn of the passing of former player and manager Terry Venables.
    “Our deepest condolences are with Terry’s friends and family at this incredibly difficult time. In tribute, we shall hold a minute’s applause prior to kick-off and our players will wear black armbands during this afternoon’s fixture against Aston Villa.”
    Who did Terry Venables play for?
    After playing for the England youth team, Terry, a midfielder, started his professional career in 1959. 
    He started off at Chelsea, where he made 237 appearances and scored 31 goals, before moving to Tottenham Hotspur in 1965, where he made 142 appearances. 
    He went on to play for Queens Park Rangers between 1969–1974, and for a short time for Crystal Palace, before his retirement from playing professional football in 1975.
    Terry also gained two caps for England, both in 1964, but missed out on playing for the legendary England team that went on to win the 1966 World Cup — he was on the reserve list but ultimately wasn’t called up. 
    Who did Terry Venables manage?
    After retiring as a football player, Terry made the move to managing teams. 
    Most famously, he took the Three Lions team to the semi-finals of the 1996 European Championship, hosted by England
    The team were eventually knocked out by Germany in the semi-final that took place at Wembley Stadium after Gareth Southgate had his penalty saved. 
    The team included legends like David Seaman, Gareth Southgate, Gary Neville, Paul Gascoigne, Alan Shearer, and Sol Campbell, and was the year England truly believed football was coming home. 
    But El Tel started his managing career at Crystal Palace, in 1976, before moving to QPR in 1980. 
    Terry, who became fluent in Spanish, then moved to Barcelona as manager in 1984, where he stayed until 1987. 
    Then came four years at Spurs, before he took up his post at the English national team. 
    He went on to manage Australia, and then Palace again, Middlesbrough, and Leeds United before retiring from management in 2003. 
    What did Terry Venables win?
    Despite hopes of a victory at the 1996 Euros, the Three Lions were knocked out by Germany in their Wembley semi-final. 
    Previously at Barça, Terry won La Liga in 1985, the Copa de la Liga in 1986 and also reached the 1986 Euro finals. 
    With Tottenham Hotspur, Terry won the FA Cup in 1991 and shared the FA Charity Shield in 1991 with London rivals Arsenal. 
    As a player, Terry won the Football League Cup in 1965, and with Spurs, the FA Cup in 1967.
    He was given the Don Balón Award for best trainer at Barcelona in 1985 and went on to be inducted into the English Football Hall of Fame in 1997. More

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    Tributes flood in for ‘wonderful’ Terry Venables after legendary Euro 96 football coach dies aged 80

    TRIBUTES have flooded in for “wonderful” Terry Venables after the legendary Euro 96 coach died aged 80.”El Tel” led England to the semi-finals in the 1996 European Championships.
    Terry Venables has died at the age of 80Credit: PA:Press Association
    Venables consoling Gareth Southgate after England were knocked out of Euro 96Credit: PA
    Terry Venables with a young David Beckham who paid a glowing tribute to the late England legendCredit: Instagram/davidbeckham
    Venables’ family paid tribute to him in a statement released this lunchtime.
    It said: “We are totally devastated by the loss of a wonderful husband and father who passed away peacefully yesterday after a long illness.
    “We would ask that privacy be given at this incredibly sad time to allow us to mourn the loss of this lovely man who we were so lucky to have had in our lives.”
    Gareth Southgate led tributes to Venables, who famously consoled him after he missed a penalty as England crashed out of Euro 96.
    Read More Sport
    Southgate said: “Any player will have great affinity with the manager that gave them their opportunity, but it was quickly evident playing for Terry Venables that he was an outstanding coach and manager.
    “He was open minded, forward thinking, enjoyed life to the full and created a brilliant environment with England that allowed his players to flourish and have one of the most memorable tournaments in England history.
    “A brilliant man, who made people feel special, I’m very sad to hear of his passing and my thoughts are with Yvette and all of his family.”
    Former England captain David Beckham paid a touching tribute to Venables, and posted a picture on social media of when he met him when he was an aspiring nine-year-old player.
    Most read in Football
    Beckham said: “So sad to hear the news that Terry Venables has passed away. I met Terry in Barcelona and whilst training at Tottenham at the age of 9… He was one of our greatest England managers and loved by players and fans , Our thoughts are with his family and friends.”
    Three Lions legends including Gary Lineker, Alan Shearer, Gary Neville, Paul Gascoigne and Stan Collymore also paid tribute to Venables on social media.
    Match of the Day host Lineker said: “Devastated to hear that Terry Venables has died.
    “The best, most innovative coach that I had the privilege and pleasure of playing for.
    “He was much more, though, than just a great manager, he was vibrant, he was charming, he was witty, he was a friend.
    “He’ll be hugely missed. Sending love and condolences to Yvette and the family. RIP Terry.”
    Spurs players Paul Gascoigne and Gary Lineker with Terry Venables in 1992Credit: David Davies / Getty Images
    Alan Shearer with then England manager Terry Venables in 1995Credit: REUTERS/Kevin Coombs
    Manager Terry Venables holding a cup of tea at an England training session in 1996Credit: Phil Cole/Getty Images
    Shearer said: “Extremely sad news the great Terry Venables has passed away.
    “RIP Boss. I owe you so much. You were amazing.”
    Neville said: “So sorry to hear the news of my very first England coach, Terry Venables.
    “A man who gave me a chance to play for my country and became without a shadow of doubt my number one England coach in my whole career.”
    Collymore said: “Incredibly sad to hear of the passing of Terry Venables today.
    “Our thoughts are with Terry’s family and friends at this sad time.”
    “He made my dream come true of representing my country which I could never really thank him enough for.
    “Vivacious, funny, a superb coach, multi talented, a man who really lived life to its fullest. Rest in Peace, Terry.”
    Gascoigne said: “Such a sad day, cheers boss.”
    England’s official Twitter account posted a tribute to the Three Lions legend.
    It read: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Terry Venables at the age of 80.
    “Having won two senior caps as a player, Terry went onto manage the Three Lions between 1994 and 1996 – proudly leading us to the semi-finals of Euro 96.
    “Our thoughts and condolences are with Terry’s family, friends and former clubs.”
    Venables’ former team Tottenham Hotspur will wear black armbands during their clash with Aston Villa this afternoon.
    Crystal Palace, Chelsea, Spurs, QPR and Coventry City paid tribute to Venables along with broadcasting stars Piers Morgan, Paddy McGuinness and Chris Kamara.
    Palace said: “We are mourning the loss of influential former midfielder and manager Terry Venables, who has passed away at the age of 80.
    “The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Terry’s family and friends at this sad time. Rest in peace, Terry.”
    Tottenham Hotspur said: “The Club is extremely saddened to learn of the passing of former player and manager Terry Venables.
    “Our deepest condolences are with Terry’s friends and family at this incredibly difficult time.
    “In tribute, we shall hold a minute’s applause prior to kick-off and our players will wear black armbands during this afternoon’s fixture against Aston Villa. Rest in peace, Terry.”
    Chelsea FC said: “Everyone at Chelsea Football Club is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former Blue, Terry Venables, aged 80.
    “The thoughts and condolences of everyone at the Club are with his family and friends at this difficult time. Rest in peace, Terry.”
    Queen’s Park Rangers also paid tribute to its former player and manager.
    QPR said: “We are deeply saddened by the passing of former QPR player and manager Terry Venables.
    “All our thoughts are with his loved ones at this incredibly sad time. May he rest in peace.”
    Coventry City said: “Everyone at Coventry City are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Terry Venables at the age of 80.
    Figures from the world of sports broadcasting and showbiz also hailed Venables.
    Piers Morgan said: “RIP Terry Venables, 80. Great manager, great character.
    “Sadly suffered from a long illness but when I bumped into him several years ago, we had a lovely chat in the sunshine, and he seemed very happy and content.
    “‘I’ve got no complaints,’ he said. ‘I’ve really enjoyed my life.’”
    Chris Kamara said: “Gutted to hear Terry Venables has passed away.
    “Top player & a fantastic manager – I got to know the person & he was a great bloke.
    “Great memories of being with him in his club Scribes in Kensington back in the late 90s. RIP Terry.”
    Paddy McGuinness said: “RIP Terry Venables. Charisma by the bucket loads and one of England’s most popular managers.”
    And Venables’ former club teammates from Chelsea and Spurs also offered their tributes.
    David Speedie said: “Sad to hear former England manager and ex Chelsea FC and Spurs legend Terry Venables has passed away.
    “It was an honour for me to wear his legendary no 10 shirt at Chelsea.
    “He was ahead of his time as manager and never got the credit I felt he deserved.”
    Spurs star Cliff Jones said: “Sad to hear of the passing of teammate & friend Terry Venables.
    “A man of many talents. Condolences to family & friends.”
    “El Tel” had a distinguished career on the pitch playing for Chelsea, Spurs and QPR in the 1960s and 70s, and winning two Three Lions caps at international level in 1964.
    He started his managerial career with Crystal Palace who won the Second Division championship in 1979.
    Venables also steered QPR to the 1982 FA Cup Final  and won the Second Division in 1983.
    He then took over the helm at Barcelona in 1984 – where he earned the nickname El Tel.
    Under his leadership, Barca went on to win La Liga in 1985 and reached the European Cup final in 1986.
    Venables then returned to the UK in 1987 to take over at White Hart Lane and guided Spurs to victory in the FA Cup in 1991.
    Then Tottenham Hotspur manager Terry Venables, right, with Nottingham Forest manager Brian Clough leading the teams out hand in hand before the 1991 FA Cup FinalCredit: David Cannon /Getty Images
    He was a hugely popular choice to take over as England head coach in 1994.
    In the group stage of the 1996 European Championships, England beat Netherlands 4-1, a game he would describe as “perfection – my most thrilling experience in football” after his retirement.
    Having beaten Spain in the next round they were eventually knocked out by Germany on penalties following an agnosing 1-1 draw.
    Alan Shearer, who was part of the Euro ’96 squad, said later: “Terry’s knowledge and tactical know-how were spot-on and he knew how to get the best out of us too.
    “We responded to him, believed in him and played some outstanding football in that tournament.”
    Gareth Southgate, who was also part of the squad, said:  “Terry opened my eyes to things that no one else has.
    “He has fantastic tactical awareness. Every senior player in the group went away having learnt a lot from him, which is an achievement.”
    Terry Frederick Venables was born in Dagenham, east London on January 6 1943.
    He was the only child of Royal Navy petty officer Fred Venables and his Welsh wife Myrtle.
    Venables grew up with his grandparents Ossie and Milly after his parents moved to run a pub in Romford, Essex.
    He credited Ossie with fostering his lifelong love of the beautiful game.
    Venables started out at the age of 15 as an apprentice at Chelsea, with his dad joining the Blues as a part-time scout.
    He only turned professional when he was left out of the Great Britain squad for the 1960 Olympics.
    During his playing and managerial career, Venables was known as a “players’ man”.
    He gave his players freedom off the pitch and usually kept his half-time team talks brief and light to maintain good spirits.
    After managing England, Venables went on to coach Australia, and then Crystal Palace, Middlesbrough and Leeds.
    His last job in football was a brief stint back with the England team in 2007, as assistant to new manager Steve McClaren, before they were both sacked for failing to qualify for Euro 2008.
    Venables had two daughters with his first wife Christine McCann, who he married in 1966.
    He met his second wife Yvette Bazire in his father’s pub in Chingford in 1984 and she went with him to Barcelona. They married in 1991.
    Venables tried his hand at a number of different business ventures besides his football career.
    He opened a West End tailors with his Chelsea teammates George Graham and Ron “Chopper” Harris.
    Together with Yvette he later ran a Kensington dining club and a boutique hotel and restaurant in Alicante, Spain.
    Venables also wrote five novels and occasionally moonlit as a singer – after Chelsea blocked him from performing as a crooner at Butlins when he was 17.
    In 2010 Venables reached no. 23 in the charts with a cover of Elvis Presley’s song “If I Can Dream”, which he recorded in association with The Sun. More