Terry Venables is hailed as 'vibrant and charming' by a 'devastated' Gary Lineker as he labels ex-England manager as 'the best, most innovative coach' he ever had - as Alan Shearer and Gary Neville pay respects to football legend who has died aged 80

Tributes have begun to flood in for former England manager Terry Venables after his passing following a long battle with illness.

England legends such as Gary Lineker, Gary Neville and Alan Shearer posted heartfelt messages on social media platform X in memory of Venables. 

Lineker spent two years at Tottenham under Venables, and was also signed by the manager for Barcelona from Everton in 1986.

Meanwhile both Shearer and Neville were part of the England setup under the former Spurs and Chelsea player. 

Lineker said: 'Devastated to hear that Terry Venables has died. The best, most innovative coach that I had the privilege and pleasure of playing for. 

'He was much more, though, than just a great manager, he was vibrant, he was charming, he was witty, he was a friend. He'll be hugely missed. Sending love and condolences to Yvette and the family. RIP Terry. ' 

Shearer meanwhile posted: 'Extremely sad news the great Terry Venables has passed away. RIP Boss. I owe you so much. You were amazing.' 

Meanwhile Manchester United legend Gary Neville posted a long and emotional message hailing Venables as 'my number one England coach in my whole career.'  

Neville also went on to say: 'England certainly needed more like him and it was a real sadness when he left at the end of Euro 96, I felt it never got as good again for England as it was under him.

'He was an unbelievable personality and character, larger than life. He was someone who was a players man, looked after his players.'

The former England right back also mentioned Venables 'unbelievable ruthlessness and clinical side' that set him apart as one of England's greatest managers. 

Tottenham also posted a tribute to their former player and manager, who won FA Cups in both roles for the club

Spurs released a statement saying: 'The Club is extremely saddened to learn of the passing of former player and manager Terry Venables,

'Our deepest condolences are with Terry's friends and family at this incredibly difficult time. In tribute, we shall hold a minute's applause prior to kick-off and our players will wear black armbands during this afternoon's fixture against Aston Villa. Rest in peace, Terry.'