Gary Speed

Gary Andrew Speed, MBE (born 8 September 1969) is a Welsh former footballer and current manager of the Wales national football team. He was previously captain of the Wales national football team until he retired from international football in 2004 and he remains the most capped outfield player for Wales. Speed played professionally for Leeds United, Everton, Newcastle United, Bolton Wanderers and Sheffield United. Rarely troubled by injury or suspension, he held the record for the most appearances in the Premiership at 535, until it was surpassed by David James.

Club career

Leeds United

Born in Mancot, Wales, Speed began his career with Leeds United, making his debut when he was aged 19. He went on to play a key role as they won the First Division championship title in 1992 as part of a midfield that also comprised Gordon Strachan, Gary McAllister and David Batty. Speed featured in the league cup final defeat against Aston Villa in 1996.

Everton

He moved to Everton in 1996, for a fee of £3.5 million.

Newcastle United

Speed was club captain at Everton, but moved to Newcastle United in 1998 for a fee of £5.5m, in controversial circumstances. Speed featured in the club's FA Cup Final defeats by Arsenal in 1998 and by Manchester United in 1999. He also played in the UEFA Champions League with Newcastle in season 2002-3.

Newcastle's manager, Sir Bobby Robson, was sorry to...
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