The world of football was rocked by the shock death of Gary Speed 13 years ago today (Wednesday, November 27).
Gary was just 42-years-old and left behind two teenage sons and wife, Louise, when he died by suicide in 2011. At the time, players, pundits and fans came together to pay their respects to the Wales manager, who had a successful playing career with the likes of Newcastle United. One person visibly affected by his tragic passing was pundit and pal Dan Walker.
Gary had been a guest on Football Focus the day before his death, and Dan Walker, who hosted the show at the time, has now pleaded with his followers to look out for signs those closest to them might be struggling. Alongside a black-and-white portrait of Gary, Dan wrote on Instagram : "13 years ago. Maybe today is a right time to reach out to that friend or text that mate who you think might be struggling. #GarySpeed."
Image:
Getty, @mrdanwalker)His post was met with a wave of affection. Among those replying to his post was Zoe Ball, who wrote: "Love to you DW and to Gary's family today and always." Eamonn Holmes and Tony Bellew were also among Dan's followers to have liked his message.
Dan regularly shares tributes to the former footballer and previously broke down when discussing his friend. In a touching video marking the 10th anniversary of the star's death, Dan detailed exactly where he was when he got the news of Speed's death the morning after presenting with him.
"As I looked at my phone there was a call from Alan," he said as he wiped away tears. "He didn't even say hello, he just said 'Have you heard about Gary'. I remember I just walked home, really numb."
He also shared the emotional video on his social media at the time, writing: "I hope this helps someone." He recalled how "people were heartbroken" at the news, with tributes paid to the 42-year-old in the days and weeks after his death.
Now, on the 13th anniversary the message remains just as strong. Gary's former teams, including Newcastle United, Leeds United and Bolton Wanderers, paid tribute on Twitter/X, with messages saying he will never be forgotten. Pundit Chris Kamara also wrote: "13 years ago today we lost Gary Speed. Speedo was something else & you sometimes hear the phrase banded around “everybody loved him” but I can assure you, everybody did in Speedo’s case RIP."
*If you're struggling and need to talk, the Samaritans operate a free helpline open 24/7 on 116 123. Alternatively, you can email jo@samaritans.org or visit their site to find your local branch
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