Gary Speed, the manager of Wales, has died aged 42. He was found hanged at his home in Chester on Sunday morning.

The news was confirmed in a statement by the Football Association of Wales.

The statement read: "We extend our sympathies and condolences to the family. We ask that everyone respects the family's privacy at this very sad time."

A spokesman for Cheshire Police said: "At 7.08am this morning, sunday 27 November, police were informed of an incident at Aldford Road, Huntington.

"Officers went to the scene where a 42-year-old man was found dead. There are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death and next of kin have been informed."

Speaking to Sky News, shadow Welsh Secretary Peter Hain called the news “unbelievable”.

“It’s hard to comprehend,” he said. “An outstanding player himself who just got into his stride as a manager. Welsh football was really looking up under him. It is tragic for his family and welsh football.”

The former Leeds, Newcastle, Everton and Bolton player won 85 international caps. He took the Wales job in December last year, having starting his managerial career with Sheffield United.

As a player, Speed won the league championship with Leeds in 1992 and was twice runner-up in the FA Cup with Newcastle. He leaves a wife and two children.

A minute's silence was held at the game between Swansea and Aston Villa. Before the silence, both sets of fans sang "there's only on Gary Speed". Shay Given, the Aston Villa goalkeeper and close friend of Speed, reportedly started the game with tears streaming down his face.

Did I mention that the Pats won?

Welsh are different most people are confirmed dead by a Dr, guess it gives their football association something to do

Kind of like a stadium wake?

he was well liked and doing well, so why this? Makes no sense. Was there something in his private life he found was to be exposed.

Wait and see!

I wait with bated breath to understand the un-suspicious death of a shinguard-wearing worldwide unknown.

Certainly he must have been hung with his own pantyhose by a French garter gagger.

Gary Speed, the manager of Wales, has died aged 42.

"I feel the need. The need for Speed"



I'm LT Pete Mitchell "Maverick", and I approved this message.