On their website, the club issued the following 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 enjoyed considerable success in his two stints as Liverpool manager. He joined the team originally in 2012 and made them a hugely successful squad. Under his guidance, they won consecutive Women’s Super League titles in 2013 and 2014.

He was among the most influential managers in their modern history. Along with his two league titles, Beard was the WSL Manager of the Season in 2013 and during his second spell in 2023-24, he guided them to promotion into the top flight as they won the 2021-22 Championship crown.

The WSL said: "Matt played an instrumental role in the growth of women’s football and will be missed by everyone associated with the game. Rest in peace."

U.S Women's coach Emma Hayes, who succedded Beard as Chelsea boss, leaving them with seven Women’s Super League titles, posted onInstagram: "Can’t quite compute this. Absolutely one of the best humans. Always available for a chat, one of the good guys. A champion in the women’s game and a top bloke. So gutted for his family."

Beard also managed women’s teams at Millwall, Chelsea, West Ham, Boston Breakers, Bristol City and Burnley.

He left Liverpool in February and was in charge of Burnley for two months before leaving to pursue other opportunities. Beard was 47.

CLOSING NOTE

Everyone at redRondo extends their deepest condolences to Matt's family, friends and the wider football community at this sad time. May he rest in peace.