On 27 November 2011, the footballing world received the heart-breaking news that Gary Speed had passed away.
Widely regarded as one of the nicest people in football, with 840 appearances in the game, the Welshman remains in our thoughts and is sadly missed to this day.
Gary began his career at Leeds United as a schoolboy and is fondly remembered for playing a key part in the promotion of 1989/90, before adding further success by helping the club to win the First Division title two years later, in 1991/92.
During that title-winning season for the Whites, Speed formed part of one of the greatest midfield line-ups in the modern era, taking up his position in the starting XI most weeks alongside Gordon Strachan, David Batty and Gary McAllister.
From 1988 to 1996, the midfielder played 312 times for the club, scoring 57 goals across a number of competitions. He left Leeds to join Everton, before then going on to further his name and reputation within the game by playing for Newcastle United, Bolton Wanderers and Sheffield United.
Gary was also a big name on the international stage. He played 85 times for Wales, a country he grew up in and loved so much. Once he retired from playing, he took over as manager of his nation, a position he held when he sadly passed away.
Such a monumental figure of the game and an amazing person, Gary will never be forgotten. He has a suite named in his honour at Elland Road in the East Stand, which supporters regularly fill with pride on a matchday.
All of our thoughts and wishes remain with Gary’s family and friends this evening, which marks 13 years since his passing.
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