Alan Shearer, who played alongside Speed at Newcastle for six years between 1998 and 2004, 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."

The footballing world has lost one of its most respected sons. Speed was an inspiration on and off the field. That he is gone so soon is absolutely tragic. Thoughts go out to his family and friends.

Gary Speed
(1969 - 2011)