Burnley Women postpone game after shocking death of former boss Matt Beard

The tragic news was announced last night that the 47-year-old had died suddenly.

The Clarets were due to take on West Bromwich Albion at 2pm today, but that fixture has now been scrapped.

"The postponement follows the news of Matt Beard’s passing,” the club confirmed in a statement.

“Further details regarding the fixture’s rearrangement will be confirmed in due course.”

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Beard was appointed boss of Burnley Women in June, only to depart just two games into the new season – just 68 days into his reign.

The club said Beard has been placed on three month’s gardening leave with immediate effect.

It was subsequently reported in the national media that Beard had offered to tender his resignation so he could speak to Leicester City.

Beard’s arrival during the summer came after the previous permanent boss, Rebecca Sawiuk, had left the club by mutual consent in March after an underwhelming campaign.

The Clarets paid tribute to Beard on Saturday night, writing: “It is with sadness that Burnley Football Club can confirm Matt Beard has passed away, at the age of 47.

“The thoughts and prayers of everyone at the club are with Matt’s family and friends.”

Beard enjoyed a long managerial career in the women’s game, first taking charge of Millwall Lionesses in 2008 and then moving to Chelsea Ladies in 2009.

He first joined Liverpool in 2012 and spent three years on Merseyside before joining Boston Breakers in the United States. He returned to England to coach West Ham United Women in 2018 and was then interim boss at Bristol City.

He returned to Liverpool in 2021 before leaving his post back in February.

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