30 Facts About Gary Speed

Early Life and Beginnings

Gary Speed's journey in football started from humble beginnings in Wales. His early life and initial steps into football laid the foundation for a remarkable career.

1. Gary Andrew Speed MBE was born on September 8, 1969, in Mancot, Flintshire, Wales. His parents, Roger and Carol Speed, and sister Lesley were all born in Chester, while his sons Thomas and Edward were born in Chester as well.
2. Speed supported Everton as a youngster and played for Flintshire Schoolboys and Aston Park Rangers, showcasing his early talent in football.

Professional Career

Gary Speed's professional career spanned over two decades, during which he played for several prominent clubs and left an indelible mark on the football world.

3. Gary Speed began his professional career with Leeds United in 1988. During his time at Leeds, he won the English First Division championship in 1991-92.
4. In 1996, Speed moved to Everton FC, where he played for two seasons and became the captain of the team.
5. In 1998, Speed joined Newcastle United, where he spent six-and-a-half years, playing in over 35 games per season and scoring 29 league goals.
6. In 2003, Bolton Wanderers signed Speed for £750,000. He played consistently for the club, making 38, 31, and 38 appearances in his first three seasons respectively. This consistency earned him the honor of becoming the first player to make 500 Premier League appearances in 2006.
7. As Speed's career began to wind down, he moved to Sheffield United on loan in 2007. He impressed his new employers and was signed for a small fee of £250,000. Despite injury issues, Speed played 17 games and scored three times before retiring.

International Career

Gary Speed's contributions to the Wales national team were significant, both as a player and later as a manager.

8. Gary Speed won 85 caps for the Wales national football team, playing mainly as a left-sided attacking midfielder. He captained the team until retiring from international football in 2004.
9. Speed held the record for the most appearances in the Premier League at 535, until it was surpassed by David James. At the time of his death, only James and Ryan Giggs had played in more Premier League matches than Speed.
10. Including appearances in the Football League and cup competitions, Speed made a total of 840 domestic appearances, cementing his place as one of the most experienced players in British football history.

Personal Life and Charitable Work

Beyond football, Gary Speed was known for his humility, dedication to family, and commitment to charitable causes.

11. Gary Speed married his fiancée Louise in 1996. The couple had two children, Thomas and Edward. He was known by friends as a humble and modest person, also echoed by David Moyes.
12. Outside his football career, Speed was involved in charitable works and fought for footballers' rights. His commitment to social causes was deeply respected by his peers and fans.
13. In 2010, Speed was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for his services to football.

Managerial Career

After retiring as a player, Gary Speed transitioned into coaching, where he continued to make a significant impact.

14. Speed initially managed Sheffield United but left the club after a few months to manage the Wales national team in December 2010.
15. Under Speed's management, Wales experienced a significant turnaround. He won five of his ten matches, including victories over Montenegro, Switzerland, Bulgaria, and Norway. This period was dubbed "Wales' renaissance" by BBC Sport.
16. Gary Speed is often credited as being the catalyst for the change in fortunes of the Welsh national team. His leadership and strategic approach set the pathway for future successes.

Death and Legacy

Gary Speed's untimely death shocked the football world, but his legacy continues to inspire.

17. On November 27, 2011, Gary Speed took his own life by hanging at his home in Huntington, Cheshire. His death shocked the football world and led to an outpouring of tributes from former teammates, coaches, and fans.
18. The news of Speed's death was met with immense grief. Former teammates like Robbie Savage and Ryan Giggs expressed their devastation, highlighting Speed's kind nature and the impact he had on those around him.
19. An inquest into Speed's death began shortly after his passing. The investigation aimed to understand the circumstances surrounding his tragic event, although the exact reasons for his decision remain unclear.
20. Gary Speed's death brought significant attention to mental health issues in sports. It sparked a conversation about the importance of addressing depression and other mental health concerns among athletes.
21. Speed's legacy extends beyond his achievements on the pitch. He touched many lives through his humility, kindness, and dedication to his craft. His influence on Welsh football and his role in promoting mental health awareness continue to inspire.
22. The Gary Speed Foundation was established to support mental health initiatives and promote well-being among athletes. The foundation continues to work towards reducing the stigma associated with mental health issues in sports.
23. After Speed's death, his family has remained committed to his legacy. His elder son, Edward, was selected for the Wales Under-16 squad in 2012, continuing the family's involvement in football.
24. An old letter written by Speed when he was 17 years old revealed his struggles with depression. This letter, uncovered by his widow Louise in 2018, highlighted the importance of addressing mental health issues early on.
25. Gary Speed's death had a profound impact on the football community. Tributes poured in from across the globe, with many remembering him as one of the nicest men in football.
26. A memorial match was held against Costa Rica, a team against whom Speed had debuted. This match served as a poignant reminder of his contributions to Welsh football and the love he inspired in everyone around him.
27. BBC Sport covered Speed's life extensively, highlighting his achievements and personal qualities. The network's coverage included interviews with former teammates and coaches, providing a comprehensive look at his career and legacy.
28. Just a day before his death, Speed appeared on the BBC One television program Football Focus. He was described as being in "fine form" by presenter Dan Walker, adding to the shock of his subsequent passing.
29. The media reaction to Speed's death was overwhelming. Sky Sports reporter Bryn Law broke down in tears during a broadcast, reminiscing about his good friend. This emotional response reflected the deep impact Speed had on those who knew him.
30. Despite his untimely death, Gary Speed's legacy continues to inspire new generations of footballers and coaches. His commitment to player education, charitable work, and mental health awareness ensures that his memory remains a positive force in the world of football.

Gary Speed's Enduring Legacy

Gary Speed's life and career left an indelible mark on football. From his early days at Leeds United to his impactful managerial role with the Wales national team, Speed's dedication and talent were evident. His record-breaking Premier League appearances and commitment to Welsh football showcased his exceptional skills and leadership. Beyond the pitch, Speed's involvement in charitable work and mental health advocacy highlighted his compassionate nature. His untimely death in 2011 shocked the football community, but it also sparked important conversations about mental health in sports. The Gary Speed Foundation continues his mission, promoting well-being among athletes. Speed's legacy lives on through his contributions to football and his lasting impact on those who knew him. His story serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing mental health and the enduring power of sport to inspire and transform lives.