Found Dead: Wales Football Manager "Gary Speed" Commits Suicide At Age 42

The world of football was in shock today after Wales manager Gary Speed has been found hanged at his home in Cheshire.

The former Leeds United, Everton, Newcastle and Bolton star, who appeared on BBC's Football Focus show yesterday, was aged 42.

Police say there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death, which is thought to be suicide. He leaves his wife Louise and two sons.

As news of the tragedy struck, tribute flooded in for the Wales boss who only retired from playing last year after winning 85 caps for his country and scoring seven goals.

A hastily-arranged minute's silence was then held at Swansea City's match against Aston Villa at the Liberty Stadium after the news broke today.

The Football Association of Wales today confirmed that their manager had died.

In a statement, the FAW said: 'The Football Association of Wales are sad to announce the death of the national team manager Gary Speed.

'We extend our sympathies and condolences to the family. We ask that everyone respects the family's privacy at this very sad time.'

A Cheshire Police spokesman added: 'At 7.08am today Cheshire Police was informed of a sudden death at an address in Huntingdon, Chester.

'Officers went to the scene where a 42-year-old man was found dead. The next of kin have been informed and have confirmed the identity of the man as Gary Speed.

'There are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death and the family have requested that they are left to grieve in peace.

'The death will now be a matter for the coroner.'