Robson and McClaren saddened by Venables news

Sunday 26 November 2023 14:53

Bryan Robson and Steve McClaren have shared their memories of working with Terry Venables after the former England manager died at the age of 80.

Manchester United legend Robson, who coached alongside Venables with England and Middlesbrough, paid tribute to his friend and former colleague as “someone who lived life with a smile on his face.” 

Robson said: “Terry was a brilliant coach to work with and I learned so much from him. He was very good tactically, but also a great motivator and communicator.

“I first worked with him as a player when he was coaching with England Under-21s under Dave Sexton and they were both a great support to me when I broke my leg in my early years at West Brom.

Robson and Venables worked together with England and Middlesbrough.
“My international playing career had come to an end by the time he took over as England manager but he brought me back as a coach and that was a brilliant experience working with him and Don Howe at Euro '96 when we got to the semi-finals.

“Later, when I was Middlesbrough manager, we were going through a tough period and I wanted to bring in a top coach, so I asked Terry and we made a great partnership.

“Everyone who worked with Terry will always remember him as someone who lived life with a smile on his face.”
McClaren appointed Venables as his assistant when he became the England manager in 2006.
United assistant coach McClaren brought Venables back into the England set-up as his assistant when he was appointed England manager in 2006.

McClaren said: “Terry was a true gentleman and a coach always ahead of his time. Working with him for England was a pleasure and an education, and he helped me enormously to deal with the pressures around the job. 

“His wit, smile and positive attitude will be sadly missed. RIP Terry.”

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