Date of Birth: September 8, 1969
Zodiac Sign: Virgo
Date of Death: November 27, 2011
Biography
Gary Andrew Speed was a highly respected Welsh footballer and manager, born on September 8, 1969, in Mancot, Wales. Known for his versatility and leadership both on and off the pitch, Speed enjoyed an illustrious playing career that spanned over two decades. He began his professional career at Leeds United, where he was instrumental in their First Division title win in the 1991-92 season. Speed later played for Everton, Newcastle United, Bolton Wanderers, and Sheffield United, accumulating over 800 professional appearances, a testament to his durability and talent. In addition to his club career, Speed earned 85 caps for the Welsh national team, scoring 7 goals. After retiring as a player, he transitioned into management, starting with Sheffield United and later taking the helm of the Welsh national team. Under his guidance, Wales began a resurgence that laid the groundwork for future successes. Tragically, Gary Speed passed away on November 27, 2011. His death shocked the football world, leading to an outpouring of tributes from players, managers, and fans who admired him.
5 Interesting Facts about Gary Speed
1. Gary Speed was the first player to reach 500 Premier League appearances.
2. He was awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in 2010 for his services to football.
3. Speed was known for his exceptional fitness, even playing into his late 30s.
4. He scored the first-ever Premier League goal for Newcastle United.
5. He was posthumously inducted into the Welsh Sports Hall of Fame in 2012.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Gary Speed
1. “Football isn’t just about winning; it’s about having fun and doing it the right way.”
2. “Playing for your country is the ultimate honor as a footballer.”
3. “I always tried to lead by example, both on and off the pitch.”
4. “Football gave me everything, and I tried to give everything back to football.”
5. “Coaching is about making players better, and that’s what I strive to do every day.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, Gary Speed’s net worth was estimated to be around £5 million.
Children
Gary Speed had two sons, Thomas Speed and Edward Speed, with his wife Louise Speed.
Relevant Links
1. [Gary Speed – Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gary_Speed
2. [BBC Sport – Gary Speed Profile](https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/15908342
3. [The Guardian – Gary Speed Obituary](https://www.theguardian.com/football/2011/nov/27/gary-speed
5. [Welsh FA – Gary Speed Legacy](http://www.faw.cymru/en/news/gary-speed-legacy-lives/