Liverpool was “deeply shocked and saddened” by the death of Matt Beard, a 47-year-old former female Reds manager. He left Anfield earlier this year and most recently took charge of Burnley’s women’s team. Beard managed Liverpool with two spells. First, I returned to my second stint between 2012 and 2015, 2021 to 2025.
He won consecutive women’s Super League titles during his first period in charge of the Reds. After returning to Anfield, he brought them back to the top flight by winning the women’s championship. Liverpool issued a statement on Saturday night, where they paid tribute to Beard and described him as “a man of true integrity and warmth.”
They stated: “The Liverpool Football Club is deeply shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of former LFC female manager Matt Beard. Everyone at the club has thoughts with Matt’s family and friends during this devastating time.
“Matt was not only a very dedicated and successful manager, but also a person of true integrity and warmth that he always remembers with genuine affection to everyone he worked with at the club.”
Liverpool added that Beard “has made a significant contribution to the club’s development and has produced many memorable moments and achievements during his multiple tenures.”
His wife, Fat, wrote on social media:
“He is a loving husband, father, son, brother and uncle. He was the most amazing and caring man loved by those who had the pleasure of seeing him.
“All our family members kindly seek time to grieve in peace in the event of his loss. We will love you forever, you are an absolute legend.”
Beard also took charge of West Ham United’s women’s team and took her to the FA Cup final. He also managed the women’s side of Bristol City and took on a simple spell on the Chelsea dugout.
The non-league outfit Eastbourne Rose said, “(We) want to express our sadness to former boss Mark Beard after the death of his brother and former WSL manager Matt Beard. We are sending our best wishes to Mark and his family.”
In a statement, WSL stated:
“Matt plays the role of instruments in the development of women’s soccer and is overlooked by everyone involved in the game.”
