England boss Gareth Southgate pays touching tribute to Euro '96 manager Terry Venables after former Three Lions coach passes away

Venables' passing was confirmed on Sunday, with the League Managers' Association releasing a statement on behalf of his family. The former midfielder and coach died at the age of 80 after a long battle with illness. Shortly after the announcement, Southgate heaped praise on his former manager.

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

Southgate was part of the England team that Venables guided to the semi-finals of Euro 96. It was the former defender who missed the vital penalty in the shootout defeat to Germany in the final four, sending the Three Lions crashing out. Germany went on to beat Czech Republic in the final at Wembley.

Venables was given a minute's applause before his former team Tottenham faced Aston Villa on Sunday. There will likely be more tributes to the beloved manager, who had spells in charge of Barcelona, Crystal Palace, Leeds and Australia among others.