A tragic loss

First, the shock. This was a man who spoke with passion and knowledge on the BBC’s Football Focus 19 hours before his body was discovered after he reportedly took his own life.

Second, this was a sportsman who earned the respect of his team-mates, opponents and fans across football. He might have been a tough-tackling midfielder in his playing pomp, but this was a player whose work ethic, and conduct, transcended traditional rivalries.

The first player to make 500 Premier League appearances, he was the embodiment of a model pro – hard working, loyal and dependable. As such, football’s grief is only eclipsed by the heartbreak suffered by Gary Speed’s young family who may, in time, be able to draw some solace from the poignant tributes that continue to be paid at Elland Road, Bramall Lane and elsewhere.