'He showed me what British football was about' - Footballers' Twitter tributes to Gary Speed
Published 16:12 27/11/11 By MirrorFootball
The tragic news of Gary Speed's death at the age of 42 has sparked a huge outpouring of grief and tributes from fellow football professionals and others from the world of sport on Twitter.
Former Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso said: "RIP Gary Speed. My first PL game game was against him, he showed me in that game what is british football about."
BBC Football Focus presenter Dan Walker tweeted: "Staggered by the news of Gary Speed's death. Was with him for much of yesterday. I genuinely cannot believe it. Thoughts with his family."
Manchester United striker Michael Owen said: "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.
"He has died aged 42. So sad. He lived local to me and we knew his family. He leaves behind 2 sons. Tragic."
BBC colleague and former Crystal Palace striker Mark Bright wrote: "I just cannot believe it, Gary Speed has passed away, I'm stunned... So sorry to hear this.. #RIPSpeedo
"I've been talking to ex players about Gary Speed, everyone is numb, pure disbelief, such a tragic day for his family & football."
Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere said: "Wow shocked at the news about Gary Speed! thoughts are with his family! RIP"
Former Cardiff City striker Jay Bothroyd tweeted: "I can not believe what I'm reading on ssn . Rip Gary speed true gent great man. "
Everton captain Phil Neville said: "Horrific news about Gary speed my thoughts and prayers are with his family."
Everton midfielder Tim Cahill wrote: "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."
Arsenal midfielder Yossi Benayoun said: "So sad to hear about gary speed,thoughts are with the family."
Wales striker Robert Earnshaw wrote: "I feel so sad.We have lost our manager,leader and an extremely great person who's inspired us all in the last year.Rest in Peace Gary Speed"
Wales defender Chris Gunter said: "Completely devastated by the news. My thoughts and prayers are with Gary's family and children. A role model and inspiration. Rip gaffer"
Tony Dorigo, who played alongside Speed in the Leeds team which won the 1992 title, said on Twitter: "I'm completely shocked and saddened. A great guy and a better team-mate you couldn't wish for. Speedo, RIP mate."
Courtenay Hamilton Miss Wales and singer tweeted: "Completely and utterly devastated by the death of Gary Speed. A gentleman and an inspiration. RIP.
"My thoughts go out to Gary's family, friends and the Welsh boys who I know had the utmost respect and love for their inspirational manager."
Welsh boxer Joe Calzaghe said: "Gutted to hear Gary Speed has died. Great player and a great guy."
Wales rugby player Leigh Halfpenny wrote: "Shocking news! Sad day for Sport and Wales! RIP Gary Speed #welshlegend."
