Tributes have begun to flood in for former England manager Terry Venables after his passing following a long battle with illness.

England legends such as Gary Lineker, Gary Neville and Alan Shearer posted heartfelt messages on social media platform X in memory of Venables. 

Lineker spent two years at Tottenham under Venables, and was also signed by the manager for Barcelona from Everton in 1986.

Meanwhile both Shearer and Neville were part of the England setup under the former Spurs and Chelsea player. 

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. 

Gary Lineker played for Tottenham under Terry Venables after he competed a move from Barcelona

Venables masterminded England’s memorable run to the semi-finals of Euro ’96 after a successful club career as a player and then as a coach.

‘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 posted: ‘Extremely sad news the great Terry Venables has passed away. RIP Boss. I owe you so much. You were amazing.’ 

Manchester United legend Gary Neville posted a long and emotional message hailing Venables as ‘my number one England coach in my whole career.’  

Neville also went on to say: ‘England certainly needed more like him and it was a real sadness when he left at the end of Euro 96, I felt it never got as good again for England as it was under him.

‘He was an unbelievable personality and character, larger than life. He was someone who was a players man, looked after his players.’

The former England right back also mentioned Venables ‘unbelievable ruthlessness and clinical side’ that set him apart as one of England’s greatest managers. 

England manager Gareth Southgate, who played under Venables, 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.

‘Tactically excellent, he had a wonderful manner, capable of handling everyone from the youngest player to the brightest star. 

Venables comforts Gareth Southgate after he missed the decisive semi-final penalty in 1996

‘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.’

Tottenham also posted a tribute to their former player and manager, who won FA Cups in both roles for the club

Spurs released a statement saying: ‘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.’ 

Venables with his assistant Allan Harris and striker Steve Archibald at the Nou Camp in 1984