Former Liverpool, Chelsea, and West Ham women’s coach Matt Beard has died at 47.
The football world is grieving after the death of Matt Beard, a respected figure in women’s football who coached Liverpool, Chelsea, and West Ham women’s teams. Beard, aged 47, was found at his home in Deeside, Flintshire, on September 20.
Paramedics rushed him to the hospital, but he was pronounced dead at 9.15 pm that evening. An inquest has been opened in Ruthin, North Wales, and a full hearing will follow later.
Beard leaves behind his wife and children. His son Harry Beard led emotional tributes online, describing his father as a man who always spread joy.
“Never failed to make me laugh, even when having a bad day, he always used to say, ‘I bet I can make you smile’, and he always did,” Harry wrote.
He also used the moment to raise awareness on mental health struggles:
“Suicide is never the answer; reach out. Call 111, or 999. Please don’t take your own life. We all miss you, Dad.”
Liverpool FC, where Beard won two league titles, described him as “a person of real integrity and warmth.” Former clubs Chelsea and West Ham also released statements of condolence.
Players, coaches, and supporters across the game expressed their shock and sadness. Manchester United boss Marc Skinner called him an “icon of the women’s game,” while England legend Fara Williams described him as “one of a kind and the purest of souls.”
At the weekend, Women’s Super League (WSL) matches observed a minute of silence in his honour. Liverpool’s match against Aston Villa was also postponed as a mark of respect.
Matt Beard will be remembered as a pioneer in women’s football, respected not only for his achievements but also for the warmth and positivity he brought to those around him.
The inquest into his death will continue in the coming weeks.
