Wales (National Football)

Gary Speed, head coach of the Wales National Team and former English Premier League midfielder, was found dead on Sunday. According to a BBC report, Speed took his his own life and the investigation is ongoing.

His death has sent shock waves throughout the tight-knit football community. Those close to him say there was no signs of trouble from the vibrant 42-year-old Welshman, who took control of his country's national squad less than one year ago.

Speed started his playing career with Leeds United before making stops at Everton, Newcastle United, Bolton and Sheffield United during his 22 years as a professional. He scored 103 goals in 677 games at the club level.

He also received 85 caps with Wales, the second most in history. His leadership qualities as the team's captain became the driving force in him taking over as coach following a short coaching stint with the Blades.

Counting all competitions, Speed played in 925 matches and scored 141 goals. He was also a steady defender and it's that versatility which allowed him to maintain a spot in the sport he loved for so long.

His coaching career at Wales had just begun and by all accounts he was pleased with the team's progress during his 10-game run. They had five wins, five losses and no draws with an even goal differential under Speed's guidance.

Following the announcement of his death, there has been an outpouring of support for the football lifer. Everybody from players like Ryan Giggs to key members of the football community such as FIFA president Joseph Blatter are on the long list of those who've expressed their condolences.

It's clear by the sheer volume of supporters that Speed was well respected, not only in Wales, but around the world as well. That makes his death even more stunning to those who knew him best.

And the sadness probably won't subside anytime soon.

Welsh football was dealt a massive blow on Sunday with the news that national team manager Gary Speed took his own life at his Cheshire home.

Speed, 42, had been in charge of the Welsh side for just under 12 months.

A former captain of his country and a real Premier League legend, Speed was one of the good guys In British football.

He had transformed the Welsh team over the last few months, and they look to have a decent chance of at last holding their own in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, where they will take on the likes of Serbia and Belgium in a pretty even-looking group.

The bold decisions he made had revitalised our football loving nation to a point where no longer were we the laughing of this football crazy island.

For the first time since the likes of Speed himself, Craig Bellamy and John Hartson were on the brink of reaching Euro 2004.

There are some truly excellent performers within this current side.

The biggest and probably best decision Speed made whilst in charge was making Aaron Ramsey the skipper.

Ramsey has all the attributes to become a world-class performer for both club and country. Speed saw this and entrusted him to lead his new-look Wales side.

Along with him, they have a player who is scaling the heights of his profession at the moment in Gareth Bale.

Bale, has had an unbelievable couple of seasons with Tottenham, going from a persistent substitute to the first name on the team sheet in the space of two seasons.

He also gave other youngsters the chance to shine on an international stage.

His defence would see Ashley Williams and Chris Gunter team up with Swansea’s Neil Taylor and Cardiff’s Darcy Blake in what is one of the best defences in years.

Blake marked Wayne Rooney out of the game during England’s 1-0 victory in September, but couldn't get in the Cardiff side at the moment.

Speed saw something in the youngster and gave him the chance to shine at the highest level.

This was what Speed was doing; he was building a side that would be ready for the World Cup in 2014 or the Euro’s in 2016.

He didn’t care for reputations, and to be fair before the recent turn in fortunes, reputations weren’t very good anyway.

Yesterday was a sad day. Being Welsh, I felt a deep sadness when the news came through I was actually with a Welsh international as the news came through.

Everybody was stunned and in total disbelief at what had happened.

It was in my mind the whole day and again today. The Premiership games were pretty meaningless in the grand scheme of things.

Football needs to take a back seat and let Welsh football and most importantly the Speed family grieve their loss.

Gary Speed will never be forgotten, and who knows the ultimate thank you this current Welsh side could give him is actually qualify for a major tournament after he put the wheels in motion.

Rest in peace, Gary Speed.

The Gary Speed I was introduced to was a marauding midfielder in the Leeds team who won the First Division title in 1992. With a pure left foot, pace to burn and boundless energy, Speed was the kind of player fans get on their feet for.

Even as a Manchester United supporter I couldn't help but admire him. He might have been lining up for our bitter rivals, but there was an honesty in Speed's game that made it very hard to dislike him. The more you watched him, the more you were convinced he was the kind of footballer others should aspire to.

But as fans we live off fleeting 90-minute glimpses into an all-consuming profession. Ours is not to say whether Speed was a good man; or whether his attitude on the pitch was reflected in that he displayed in the majority of his hours in football's employment, or out of it.

For that we rely on the many who were fortunate enough to cross his path in a playing career that called at Leeds, Everton, Newcastle, Bolton and Sheffield United, and spanned a remarkable 22 years. And those who knew him as a young manager of undoubted potential, lost to the game with his revitalised Wales team sparking optimism of qualifying for a first major tournament since 1958.

Those people have spoken. And 24 hours after the tragic news of Speed's death shocked us all, we can say with absolute authority that one of the British game's most respected, and most loved, figures has left behind a legacy to inspire generations to follow. Here are just a few of the tributes paid to Speed.

"I’ve met a lot of people in my time, a lot of sportsmen. Gary had none of those things which we associate with sportsmen. He was ordinary as a bloke, very nice, very genuine, very honest, very hardworking. He was a joy to manage," - former Leeds manager Howard Wilkinson

"The description ‘model professional’ could have been written for him. His preparation for every game and dedication to being as successful as he could was evident to everyone who worked with him. He was someone every young player could look up to: the ideal role model." - Ian Rush, who played alongside Speed for Wales

"Gary Speed was one of the nicest men in football and someone I am honoured to call a team-mate and friend." - Ryan Giggs

"Gary was a wonderful ambassador for our league, and indeed all of football, but more than that he was a decent man widely respected throughout the game and beyond. Gary will go down in history as one of our iconic players, he was a stand-out professional of the modern game and I’m sure all football fans across Britain will be deeply saddened at his untimely passing." - Premier League chief executive Richard Scudamore

The words of those who knew him have painted Speed as the role model of role models. Here was a footballer so untouched by the wealth, fame and adulation that came his way, that he left the game as humble as the day he entered it. In 50 years from now, when Speed's contemporaries are leaving us in more timely fashion, how many do you think will be able to say the same?

Perhaps the passing of Speed will serve as a sermon to a game that often forgets itself. Football's news agenda seems to be dominated by corruption, greed and petulance these days, but for now eulogies to a man who sidestepped all three are rightly overwhelming the competition. There's something profound to be learned in that.

But for now, let us remind ourselves of Speed the wonderfully energetic, dynamic and talented footballer. That one at least lived the longest, and fullest, of lives.

Wales manager Gary Speed was found dead at his home on Sunday from an apparent suicide, according to a report from The Telegraph.

The former midfielder—who played for clubs such as Newcastle, Everton, Bolton and Leeds—was 42 years old.

According to police, there are no suspicious circumstances involved with Speed's death.

Former Liverpool and current Manchester United striker Michael Owen said the following about Speed's death:

"Just cannot believe the news regarding Gary Speed. We waved at each other a couple of days ago dropping our kids off at school. I'm numb."

Speed was a talented player, earning 85 international caps for Wales. He made his debut for Leeds as a 19-year-old in 1988, and was a key player on the club's 1992 First Division championship team.

In 2006 while playing for Bolton Wanderers he became the first player ever to makes 500 Premier League appearances. 

In August of 2007 Speed became the only player to score in every Premier League season to that point, a feat later matched by and continued by midfielder Ryan Giggs of Manchester United, also from Wales.

He became the Wales manager in December 2010, and earned his first competitive win with a 2-1 victory over Montenegro in September.

With Speed as manager, Wales improved drastically and won three consecutive games for the first time since 2008 recently. Wales finished their qualifying stage for Euro 2012 with three wins in their last five matches.

Speed will be missed by the entire football community, and our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.

After numerous rumours regarding the furture of John Toshack as Wales Manager. It is rumoured that the Football Association of Wales are going to hold a press conference on Thursday where is is speculated it will announce the departure of the former Real Madrid and Deportivo manager.

It is being reported that at 61, Toshack believes he has taken the team as far as he can and is more than willing to step down after four years in charge. The news comes after a disappointing 1-0 defeat to Montenegro in their opening Euro 2021 qualifying match.

While it is being speculated that he is under no pressure from the FAW to leave, he was seen in deep discussions with high personnel from the FAW after the defeat. It is believed that he may leave before next month's qualifying games against Bulgaria and Switzerland. But, it needs be, Toshack is believed to be willing to stay in charge for the games if neccesary.

The Wales team has been in a bit of a rebuilding process for the past two campaigns. Toshack inherited an ageing squad when he took charge, he set about setting the foundations for youth to be given an opportunity and take the national team forward and hopefully to the next level, the next level being qualification to a major tournament for the first time since 1976. Unfortunately, although the intentions were right, the move has not been a success.

Former internationals like Robbie Savage in the press have endorsed that the national team in his current capacity have gone stale and a change needs to be made to freshen things up. I totally agree with Savage, maybe the impact of new blood as manager could have a huge influence on the national team in a positive capacity. With this in mind, i was shocked to hear that by fresh blood, they actually meant raw talent. Raw talent being none other than RYAN GIGGS.

As soon as news broke of Toshacks departure, Giggs was instantly installed as bookmakers favourites. At writing this article, Giggs was 11/4 with one high street bookmaker.

Giigs appears to be a popular choice amongst fans. Even current manager Toshack has endorsed his appointment. But with a lack of experience and the fact that he is still playing may mean that the opportunity has come a little too soon for him.

Nobody is going to argue with his credentials. He has won every domestic honour a player can win in a career, he has won numerous individual accolades along the way. He has learnt his trade under the guidance of arguably the best manager if not the most successful one in the modern era to grace the english game in Sir Alex Ferguson.

Personally, Giggsy never came across as future management material. He was always a future coach at best. He does not have the personality of a manager, but Giggs has never been one to live to expectations. Who would have thought he was still playing for one of the biggest clubs in the world and showing no signs of slowing down at the age of 36.

Hughes used the Welsh national team as a stepping stone to gain experience, so who is to say Giggsy can't do it. With more experienced managers available like Chris Coleman even Under 21's boss Bryan Flynn. As much as i love Giggs, i would prefer him to stay with United in some capacity after his career. Surely giving him such a high profile job is a major risk for Wales?

John Toshack named a 26-man squad yesterday for the upcoming World Cup Qualifiers in less than two weeks time. The Wales manager included captain Craig Bellamy and defender James Collins in his squad, despite both players currently being injured.

Bellamy has not featured for his club since March 1 when he limped off at Upton Park, whereas Collins has missed West Ham’s last three matches, not featuring for almost a month. Both players are believed to have outside chances of returning for their clubs this weekend, and Toshack will no doubt be keeping his fingers crossed for his two key players.

Jack Collison has recently joined club mate Danny Gabbidon on the sidelines and will miss both games. In his place Gavin Williams is recalled, hoping for his first cap in three and a half years, and uncapped Middlesbrough defender Rhys Williams is also selected.

Wales face Finland in Cardiff on Saturday, March 28 in what Toshack has already indentified as a “win or bust” game. With Germany and Russia already occupying the top two places in Group 4, Toshack is keenly aware that his team’s only hope of challenging for a play-off place requires them to first see off Finland.

World Cup Qualifying, Europe – Current Standings

Group 4

                    P   PTS                                 

Germany        4    10                          

Russia           3     6                        

Wales           4     6                                  

Finland          3     4                            

Azerbaijan      3     1                            

Liechtenstein  3     1                           

While Wales face Finland, Russia and Germany have home games against Azerbaijan and Liechtenstein respectively. Therefore, the importance of winning the match at the Millennium Stadium cannot be underestimated as it will most likely be the only way of staying in contact with the top two.

Wales lost their last qualifier 1-0 in Moenchengladbach in October, eventually succumbing to a late strike by Piotr Trochowski, his first goal for this country. Since then they have had contrasting fortunes in two friendly games, first gaining an impressive victory in Denmark courtesy of a solitary Craig Bellamy goal before losing 1-0 to Poland in a friendly played in Portugal last month.

Toshack’s side have a good record against Finland, having only lost two of nine previous meetings, winning four. However, in a must-win game they will need to improve on their home record which currently stands at two wins out of five against the Finns.

The second fixture at home to Germany offers less hope looking at past results, Wales having only won two of the 16 matches played between the two nations. However, both of these wins have come in Wales home matches, the most recent a 1-0 friendly win in 2002 as well as a further 1-0 victory in qualifying for Euro ’92.

Full Wales squad for matches against Finland and Germany:

Goalkeepers: Wayne Hennessey (Wolverhampton W), Boaz Myhill (Hull City), Owain Fon Williams (Stockport County)

Defenders: Gareth Bale (Tottenham Hotspur), James Collins (West Ham United), Neal Eardley (Oldham Athletic), Chris Gunter (Tottenham Hotspur, on loan at Nottingham Forest), Craig Morgan (Peterborough United), Lewin Nyatanga (Derby County), Sam Ricketts (Hull City), Ashley Williams (Swansea City), Rhys Williams (Middlesbrough, on loan at Burnley)

Midfielders: Simon Davies (Fulham), David Edwards (Wolverhampton W), Carl Fletcher (Plymouth Argyle), Owain Tudur Jones (Swindon Town), Jason Koumas (Wigan Athletic), Joe Ledley (Cardiff City), Aaron Ramsey (Arsenal), Carl Robinson (Toronto), Gavin Williams (Bristol City)

Forwards: Craig Bellamy (Manchester City), David Cotterill (Sheffield United), Robert Earnshaw (Nottingham Forest), Ched Evans (Manchester City), Sam Vokes (Wolverhampton Wanderers)

Arguably Manchester United's greatest ever player, Ryan Giggs, has prolonged his career for yet another year, as he has agreed a one-year extension to his current contract at Old Trafford.

This means the club's highest all-time appearance maker will stay at United until at least June 2010, meaning there are still several more opportunities for him to distance himself from all others, and really confirm himself as the best ever player in a United shirt.

Giggs, who astonishingly has been playing before the Premier League began—he made his debut in March 1991, in the old Division One—is also the only ever player to score in every season of the Premier League, with his stunning winner against West Ham at Upton Park on Sunday.

Obviously top story on the Manchester United webiste, the Welsh wizard told the club's official website, "I am delighted to be offered a new contract", before going on to say, "I feel fit and I'm enjoying my football more than ever."

The secret to Giggs' amazing career is of course his fitness, and the fact that he has kept himself in tip top condition for a countless amount of years, unlike most other players nowadays.

Giggs added, "This is an exciting young team and the spirit is great in the dressing room. I want to be a part of that and achieve even more success."

With United still going strong in all four competitions so far this season, there is no doubt he is more than likely to add to his mindblowing list of honours, which include:

• 10 Premier League titles
• Four FA Cup titles
• Two Football League Cup titles
• Seven FA Community Shield titles
• Two UEFA Champions League titles
• One UEFA Super Cup title, one FIFA Club World Cup title, one Intercontinential title

He has also won an amazing amount of individual awards, including an OBE for services to football, and an honourary Master of Arts degree from Salford University, for his contributions to football and charity work in developing countries.

Looking at all he has won and achieved, I think it's clear Giggs can stake a claim to being one of the greatest ever players to grace the modern game.

Speaking of legends, the man himself, Sir Alex Ferguson, saluted Ryan Giggs' approach to the game and believes he sets an example all youngsters should follow.

The Red Devils supremo said, "Ryan is a true professional of the game; his lifestyle, the way he looks after himself, his desire to always want to win is a credit to him and also an inspiration to any young kid who wants to become a footballer.

"He is like a young boy in the way that he plays and, although he wants to play every game, he understands that using his experience when it matters is a benefit to him and the team.

"It would be easy for him to be complacent after all he has achieved, but he isn't, and that speaks volumes of why the club wanted to extend his services and use that experience."

Ryan Giggs has been playing professionally at Manchester United Football Club since before I was born. He is the very reason why I got involved in football, and I am sure that is the same with millions of other youngsters across the world.

Ryan Giggs is a truly amazing player, and thankfully football hasn't yet lost the type of player that it will never see again.

Ryan Giggs is one-in-a-million, the best player I have ever seen.

We'll all log on to Bleacher on Monday morning, and one thing is for definite, there will be at least five articles on Arsene Wenger. Yet chances are we'll be lucky to see one on the Welsh derby this weekend, upon which there is perhaps more at stake.

I'm talking of course about Swansea City vs Cardiff City at the Liberty Stadium. Here's ten reasons why it's more important a tie than it's London counterpart:

1. It's been nine years since they met in a league fixture. They may have met in the League Cup a couple of months back, but that's Mickey Mouse stuff compared to this. Both sets of fans are chomping at the bit to see their side beat their counterpart.
2. Both sides only really consider the other to be their rivals, whilst Arsenal and Chelsea both have much bigger fish to fry. Arsenal's rivals are Spurs, Chelsea's rivals are Fulham and West Ham. They only see fit to build this game up because their both doing well.
   
3. There will actually be a full-on atmosphere created by both sets of fans.
4. There's much more added spice to this game. Take Lee Trundle's t-shirt ( pictured) that was on display after Swansea won the Football League Trophy in 2006. You don't get that in the Premiership.
5. The fans hate each other. They don't want their team to beat the other. They need their teem to beat the other.
6. Both sides spend all season playing teams in effectively another country and FA. This is the only time they get to face another Welsh team.
7. The fans in the ground won't have to pay the best part of £50 for their ticket.
8. Both teams at the Liberty will be playing players actually from Cardiff and Swansea. Joe Ledley represents the Welsh capital, whilst Shaun McDonald is a Swansea boy. How many Arsenal players from North London will be on show this weekend?
   
9. Only one point separates them in the league, so not only will the winners get pride of the last win, but pride of the higher-placed team in the league.
10. There's the added incentive of the promotion picture. Both sides are in the top eight, so a win will boost their play-off chances greatly. Who knows, next season one of these teams could be the first top-flight Welsh team for decades.

Maybe it's worth a watch on Sunday?

Tonight in Denmark, Wales are set to hand Arsenal's Aaron Ramsey his first cap in what is being hailed as the biggest Wales debut since Ryan Giggs made his debut in 1991.

Ramsey first emerged earlier this year as a substitute in Cardiff City's hugely successful FA Cup run, winning admirers all over Europe. He quickly made it into the Bluebirds first team, and came on as a substitute at the FA Cup Final against Portsmouth.

After that match, the likes of Everton and Manchester United beat paths to his door, but it was Arsenal who secured his signature for £5 million.

Since his arrival at Emirates Stadium, Ramsey has mainly been used in the much-heralded Carling Cup team but has also come on as a substitute in Premier League games and has scored in the Champions League against Fenerbahce.

Arsene Wenger has said that Ramsey is likely to be a regular member of the first team for the 2009/2010 season.

His international form has been amazing as well. At just 17 years old, Ramsey has been the best player in Wales' Under-21 team, and was the man of the match in both playoff legs against England, which the Welsh narrowly lost 5-4 on aggregate.

In the second leg at Villa Park, Ramsey scored a wonder goal from long range, which made the world take notice of his talents.

Wales coach John Toshack obvious liked what he saw, and though he has called Ramsey up to Welsh squads before, as an unused substitute, tonight is the first game he's guaranteed to start.

Ramsey will be the playmaker in the Welsh midfield, and from what I've seen so far, he won't be afraid of any opposition, especially given that Denmark will be led in attack by Ramsey's Arsenal team-mate Nicklas Bendtner.

Ramsey demands the ball whenever he doesn't have it, and that's a lot of balls for a 17 year old to be like that on the pitch. He can also put in the tackles, and still set up the attack.

Wales don't have another qualifier until March, so after tonight, there's another game in February to bed him in, but one thing is for certain: This will not be Aaron Ramsey's only Welsh cap.