Gary Speed: Tributes Paid to ‘The Best Professional in Football’

Following the death of Gary Speed, who was found hanged at his home in Cheshire on Sunday, a host of players, managers and administrators have paid tribute to the 42-year-old.

Ryan Giggs, Manchester United midfielder and former Wales teammate of Speed:

"I am totally devastated. Gary Speed was one of the nicest men in football and someone I am honoured to call a teammate and friend," he told skysports.com.

"Words cannot begin to describe how sad I feel at hearing this awful news.

"It goes without saying my thoughts are with his family at this tremendously sad time."

Mark Bowen, a Wales teammate of Speed for several years: -

"It's a very sad day. Even now there is a numbness about it. We can't believe it," He told the BBC's "The World This Weekend."

"It should be highlighted in his chosen profession what he actually did. He had a fantastic career as player and as a manager and a coach. It almost seems to pale into insignificance as what it means to his wife and two boys.

"He was actually a captain of the team when there were a lot of older, senior players in the squad at the same time - the likes of Mark Hughes and Ian Rush. That shows you the measure of the man.

"Having played with him he was a player, a teammate you could always rely on. He'd be there for you.

"He was an uncomplicated character and as a player and he took those traits into management. He had a long career ahead of him."

Aaron Ramsey, Arsenal midfielder and current Wales captain: -

"I was given the tragic news this morning. To say I am devastated is an understatement. My thoughts and prayers go out to Gary's family and friends.

"Today the world has lost a great football manager but even more sadly a great man. He will be missed by all."

Robbie Savage, former Wales international and teammate of Speed: -

"The world has lost a great man in Gary Speed. I'm devastated spoke to him yesterday morning why! Why. Why. ... he loved life he loved his family.

"Devastated. He was upbeat on phone yesterday we were laughing together, talking football and dancing. He was a great teammate and a great friend."

Mark Hughes, former Manchester United player and ex-Manchester City manager, who played alongside Speed for Wales: -

"I'm devastated. He was a privilege to work alongside and call a friend, my thoughts are with his family."

Alan Shearer, former Newcastle United teammate: - "Gary was a magnificent person, bright, fun and a wonderful family man." He told BBC Sport. "He lit up every room he walked into. I am proud to have been his friend and will miss him dreadfully."

Howard Wilkinson, former Leeds United boss and manager 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.

"It's unbelievable; I'm still struggling to get my head around it. I've known Gary since 1988 when I joined Leeds and I've rarely come across a better-balanced, lovely, genuine person. He was a terrific player."

Steven Taylor, Newcastle United defender and former teammate of Speed's at St James' Park: -

"It is a sad, sad day. I played with him when I came through the ranks.

"He helped me through, he was an absolute machine - the best professional in football. He had that aura about him. He always had time for the young lads and helped them feel good about themselves."

Paul Dews, Leeds United spokesman: "Everyone connected with Leeds United is saddened and stunned to hear about Gary.

"He was a very popular and likeable man throughout the world of football, and our thoughts are with Gary's family and friends.

"It's very difficult to put into words how we feel right now. Gary still maintained contact with Leeds United and was very good friends with our manager, Simon Grayson.

"This year we are celebrating 20 years since our title-winning campaign of 1991-92 and Gary was very instrumental in us winning that.

"Leeds remained very close to Gary's heart and Leeds' fans will be stunned, saddened and shocked to hear the news today."

Carwyn Jones, Wales First Minister: "I'm deeply saddened to hear about the death of Gary Speed. This is devastating news and our thoughts are with his family at what must be a very difficult time for them.

"I'm deeply saddened to hear about the death of Gary Speed.

"This is devastating news and our thoughts are with his family at what must be a very difficult time for them."

A statement on Sheffield United's Web site, said: "Everybody at Sheffield United is extremely shocked and saddened to learn of the death of former player and manager Gary Speed.

"Thoughts are with Gary's family and friends at this distressing time."

Simon Grayson, current Leeds United manager: "We signed on the same day and played in the youth and reserve teams together.

"We also did all our coaching badges together. He was a good friend and this is a very sad day. Gary was such a popular person and this is a hard time for everybody."

Bobby Gould, former Wales manager who made Speed captain: "He was a great pro. He would play anywhere for you - left back, left wing, centre of midfield, wide left. It's such a tragedy.

"People are just stunned. I saw John Hartson earlier and I said 'have you heard about Gary?' The big man just cried and cried. We cuddled each other."

Hugh Robertson, the Minister for Sport and the Olympics: - "This is tragic and sad news. Gary Speed was a wonderful servant to his clubs and country throughout his career. My thoughts are with his family."

Michael Owen, Manchester United striker: "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."

Gareth Southgate, Football Association head of elite development: "Absolutely tragic news about Gary Speed. So sad for his young family."

Tim Cahill, Everton midfielder: "Gary Speed was the ultimate pro on and off the pitch. So sad to lose someone so special to Football, Friends, Fans, Family Rest in Peace mate."

Tony Dorigo, former Leeds United midfielder and teammate of Speed's: ""I'm completely shocked and saddened. A great guy and a better team-mate you couldn't wish for. Speedo, RIP mate."