Football world salutes Gary Speed
Football is mourning the death of Wales manager Gary Speed, with former team-mates, managers and players who had worked under him united in their sorrow.
The 42-year-old father of two was found hanged at his home on Sunday morning, a day after appearing on live television and chatting to fellow footballing figures.
Cheshire Police confirmed that Speed’s body was discovered at the property in Huntington, on the outskirts of Chester, and said there were “no suspicious circumstances”.
Condolences have poured in, with the consensus being that Speed was not only a great player and formidable manager but also a well-respected and widely liked man.
His former Wales team-mate Ryan Giggs said: “I am totally devastated. Gary Speed was one of the nicest men in football and someone I am honoured to call a team-mate and friend. Words cannot begin to describe how sad I feel at hearing this awful news.”
His former Newcastle team-mate Alan Shearer, for whom Speed set up many of his goals during their six years together, said: “Gary was a magnificent person, bright, fun and a wonderful family man – he lit up every room he walked into. I am proud to have been his friend and will miss him dreadfully.”
Speed won the last First Division title with Leeds in the 1991-92 season before the inaugural Premier League season. The manager of that classic team, Howard Wilkinson, said of Speed: “He was a star in the true sense. For him – at 42 – to leave us is such a tragic loss. He had a life of success to look forward to I’m sure. I’ve known Gary since 1988 when I joined Leeds and I’ve rarely come across a better balanced, lovely, genuine person”.
From successful player to hugely promising manager, Speed succeeded John Toshack as Wales manager just under a year ago, and despite being in charge for just 10 games in total, but such was his record that he took the team from 110th in Fifa rankings to 45th.
His captain, Arsenal youngster Aaron Ramsey, was devastated by the news of his mentor’s death.
“I was given the tragic news this morning. To say I am devastated is an understatement. Today the world has lost a great football manager but even more sadly a great man. He will be missed by all,” he said.
Manchester United striker Michael Owen, a neighbour and family friend of Speed, said via Twitter: “Just cannot believe the news regarding Gary Speed. We waved at each other a couple of days ago dropping our kids off at school. I’m numb. So sad. He lived local to me and we knew his family. He leaves behind 2 sons. Tragic.”