Emma Hayes hails Matt Beard as ‘one of the best humans’ after his death aged 47

Former Chelsea boss Emma Hayes has hailed Matt Beard as “one of the best humans” and a “champion in the women’s game” after his death at the age of 47.

It was announced on Saturday night that the former Liverpool Women’s manager Beard had died – a month on from leaving his most recent position at Burnley.

Beard enjoyed a hugely successful managerial career, winning two Women’s Super League titles with the Reds and taking charge of Chelsea and West Ham following his first role at Millwall Lionesses in 2008.

Chelsea said in a statement that Beard “helped shape Chelsea Women” during his three-year tenure and credited him for “laying much of the foundations” ahead of Hayes replacing him in 2012 before she embarked on a trophy-laden spell.

United States manager Hayes led the tributes towards the popular figure, she wrote on her Instagram Story: “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.”

Chelsea and England defender Millie Bright described herself as “absolutely heartbroken” in an image on her Instagram Story which was accompanied with two broken red heart emojis.

Two-time European Championship winner Bronze featured under Beard during the 2013 and 2014 WSL triumphs at Liverpool, she said: “Can’t believe it.”

Former England centre-back Gilly Flaherty was Beard’s captain at West Ham during their run to the FA Cup final at Wembley in 2019.

“Absolutely devastated and lost for words at the news of losing Beardy tonight,” Flaherty said on Instagram.

“A man I thought so highly of, who in all honesty I would’ve followed around the world to play for. The best manager & friend I could’ve ever had asked to have in my life.

“Rest easy beardy & give my dad a big squeeze please. Love you gaffer xx.”