Sorensen: ‘I was in shock when I saw it'
Brian Sorensen has offered his condolences to the family of Matt Beard, who passed away last week at the age of 47.
The married father of two and stepfather to another was a legend of the woman’s game and tributes have been paid up and down the country, with both fans of Everton Women and Manchester City rising to applaud on 47 minutes during their midweek league cup fixture.
Speaking in his press conference ahead of his team’s weekend WSL fixture, Sorensen admitted he was in complete shock upon hearing the tragic news and has sought help for members of his squad who worked under the former Liverpool Women’s manager.
“It was devastating and my condolences go out to Matt’s family. I was in shock when I saw it,” he said.
“We talked about it, we have a couple of players who worked under Matt. We got someone in to help and talk to the ones that needed it.”
“He has been in it for so long. Since I joined the women’s game 25 years ago, he was at Chelsea.
“It’s a big tragedy. Even when I was in Denmark, I knew who Matt Beard was.”
Beard first began his managerial career in 2008 when he took charge of Millwall Lionesses, before going on to manage a number of women’s teams, including two stints with Everton’s Merseyside rivals, as well as Chelsea, West Ham United, Bristol City and Burnley.
Honours included back-to-back WSL titles with Liverpool, as well two FA WSL Manager of the Year awards, while Beard also pitted his coaching wits in America with Boston Breakers.
Everyone at Royal Blue Mersey offers their sincerest condolences to the family of Matt Beard – a true pioneer in the growth of women’s football.
Category: General Sports
