Alex Scott pauses BBC TV coverage to support former Liverpool star after death of Matt Beard

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BBC Sport pundit Fara Williams was comforted by her colleagues, including host Alex Scott, as she gave an emotional tribute to former Liverpool Women's manager Matt Beard, who tragically passed away over the weekend.

The footballing world has been flooded with tributes following the news of the 47-year-old's passing.

Beard clinched the Women's Super League title twice during his initial tenure at Liverpool in 2013 and 2014, and also secured the Women's Championship title in 2022.

Liverpool revealed the heartbreaking news in a statement on Saturday, describing Beard as "was also a person of real integrity and warmth, who will always be remembered with genuine fondness by everyone he worked with at the club".

READ MORE:Ex-Liverpool Women boss Matt Beard dies aged 47 as respects paid to WSL winnerREAD MORE:Matt Beard death: Robbie Fowler and Everton boss lead tributes to 'lovely man and top coach'

He departed Liverpool last summer and numerous of his former players have paid tribute, including Williams, who was on BBC duty on Sunday afternoon.

"It's a tough day," she started.

"I tried to speak a little bit about him on Five Live a bit earlier, it's difficult.

"Steph (Houghton) said it there, he meant so much to all of us.

He will be missed."

At this point, Houghton and presenter Alex Scott paused to offer Williams support as they both reached out to touch her arms.

"Matt was a leader, he was a mentor and he was a manager.

His love for the game will leave a lasting impact on the game," Scott stated.

"Everyone at BBC sends their deepest sympathies to Matt's family, friends and his loved ones and everyone in the football community at this difficult time."

Deb, the wife of Beard, shared a poignant message on social media: "It is with great sadness that our beautiful Matthew Beard has passed away tonight [Saturday] at 7.28pm.

He was the most amazing, caring man who was loved by anyone who had the pleasure to meet him.

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"All of our family kindly ask for time to grieve in peace at his loss.