Gary Speed RIP

Haven't been near the computer for days but felt utterly winded by the terribly sad news that Gary Speed has taken his own life. His playing career included over 500 premier league games, his days at Leeds United are particularly fondly remembered. The midfield trio of Speed, Strachan and MacCaliester were formidable. Winning the old first division title in its' last year as one of the greatest Leeds sides. What makes it all the more shocking is his career as a manager and pundit has been successful. Many footballers struggle to find purpose after they stop playing leading to later life problems. Speed, though, is Wales manager and was in command of a great generation of players, the best Wales side seen in my lifetime. Yesterday he was a guest on BBC 1s' Football Focus and appeared completely normal. Other guests and friends who saw him there say he was talking of the future, his boys football skills and thier future. It all seems impossible. An intelligent man, universally liked, with beautiful wife, children, wealth and security, purpose, a successful career. Deeply upset here at Skreeworld. Sincere thoughts go out to his family.