### Remembering Matt Beard: A Beloved Figure in Women’s Football
The world of women’s football is mourning the loss of Matt Beard, the highly respected former Liverpool manager, who died at the age of 47. His passing has sent shockwaves throughout the football community, with tributes pouring in from former players, colleagues, and fans who remember him not just as an accomplished coach, but as a warm-hearted mentor, friend, and pioneer for the women’s game.
#### A Manager Beyond Measure
Fara Williams, former England midfielder and a key player under Beard during Liverpool’s golden era, offered a heartfelt tribute in the wake of his death. Williams, who played an instrumental role in Beard’s Liverpool squad that clinched back-to-back Women’s Super League (WSL) titles in 2013 and 2014, described him as “one of a kind” with “the purest of souls.” Her words painted a picture of a manager who was more than just a leader on the pitch—he was a confidant, mentor, and friend to those around him.
“He always greeted you with a ‘hello darling’ and a warm hug,” Williams recalled, emphasizing Beard’s unique ability to make everyone feel valued and seen. “He saw everyone as the same. He never had judgment of people.” Williams spoke movingly about how, whether in the highs of victory or the lows of defeat, Beard would always offer his time and support, never shying away from those who needed him. “Just a special guy. I wish he was here to see and feel that from all of us. He was one of a kind and had the purest of souls,” she said.
Williams credited Beard not only for his tactical acumen, but for his profound impact on her life and career. “He was somebody that saw potential in me that maybe I didn’t see myself. When I had difficult periods outside football he was there,” she explained, likening his influence to that of an older brother. “He gave a lot of love, he gave a lot of attention to people. He gave opportunities when people thought they were down and out. He was the guy that would find a space for them.”
#### A Career Defined by Success and Compassion
Matt Beard’s journey in football management began in 2008 with the Millwall Lionesses, where he achieved promotion in his first season. He quickly established himself as a progressive and ambitious coach, moving on to Chelsea for a three-year stint that included leading the team to an FA Cup final. However, it was at Liverpool where Beard truly left his mark, overseeing one of the most successful periods in the club’s history.
During his first spell at Liverpool, Beard guided the team to consecutive WSL championships, elevating the club to new heights and managing them through their debut Champions League campaign. His influence extended beyond tactics and results; he played a crucial role in professionalizing the women’s game, advocating for greater recognition, resources, and opportunities for female players.
After leaving Liverpool, Beard’s career took him across the women’s football landscape, including spells with Boston Breakers in the United States, West Ham United, and Bristol City. In 2021, he returned to Liverpool for a second tenure, leading the club back to the WSL and reaffirming his reputation as a builder and motivator. Most recently, he held a brief managerial position at Burnley, stepping down after two months. Following news of his death, Burnley postponed their scheduled Women's National League match in his honor, underscoring the deep respect he commanded throughout the sport.
#### A Mentor and Advocate for Women’s Football
Beard’s passion for the women’s game was evident to all who knew him. Williams emphasized his dedication to advancing women’s football, noting that he “cared massively about the women’s game and was there from the beginning.” Beard’s focus was always on driving the sport forward, championing causes that helped players and clubs grow and thrive. “He cared about the game, he cared about where he could take the game, he cared about people maybe more than he cared about himself. He gave attention and time and that is something you can’t buy,” she said.
Williams reflected on the invaluable investment of time and personal attention that Beard gave to those around him, describing herself as “forever grateful” for the impact he had on her life and career. “You can’t buy somebody’s time and investment