Gary Lineker pays Terry Venables the ultimate compliment as former England boss dies aged 80
Terry Venables has died at the age of 80
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Gary Lineker has paid tribute to Terry Venables following the death of the former England boss.
The 80-year-old died peacefully after a long battle with illness.
Venables had spells in charge of the likes of England, Barcelona and Tottenham during his career in management.
He famously signed Lineker for Barcelona while he was working over in Catalonia, while the duo were also reunited at Tottenham as well.
Terry Venables also worked with Gary Lineker at Tottenham
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And the Match of the Day host has now paid Venables the ultimate compliment by saying he was the 'best' coach he played for.
"[I'm] devastated to hear that Terry Venables has died," he said.
"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."
Other figures from around the footballing world have paid tribute to Venables, too.
Alan Shearer said: "Extremely sad news. The great Terry Venables has passed away.
"RIP Boss. I owe you so much. You were amazing."
Stan Collymore said: "Incredibly sad to hear of the passing of Terry Venables today.
"He made my dream come true of representing my country, which I could never really thank him enough for.
"[He was] vivacious, funny, a superb coach, multi talented, a man who really lived life to its fullest.
"Rest in Peace, Terry."
Clinton Morrison added: "He came to Crystal Palace and every player was in awe of him.
"He came with all of his England coaching staff and he had that aura about him but he wasn't only a top manager he was a great guy as well."
A minute's applause will be held before Tottenham's Premier League clash with Aston Villa on Sunday afternoon.
Players will wear black armbands, too.
Tottenham reacted to news of Venables' death by 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.
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Terry Venables has died at the age of 80 with figures from around the footballing world paying tribute
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"Rest in peace, Terry."
Aston Villa paid their own tribute by saying: "Everyone at Aston Villa is deeply saddened by the passing of former England manager Terry Venables.
"Ahead of kick-off against Terry’s former club Tottenham Hotspur this afternoon, a minute’s applause will take place in his memory.
"The thoughts and condolences of all at the club are with his family and friends at this time."
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