BREAKING NEWS:Welsh football manager Gary Speed dead aged 42

Wales manager Gary Speed has been found hanged at his home in Cheshire, it was revealed today.

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. It is believed to be suicide.

In a statement released on their website, The Football Association of Wales 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 said: ‘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.’

After hearing of the news, Manchester United striker Michael Owen, who lives near the star, tweeted: ‘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.’

Mr Speed was a guest on the BBC’s Football Focus show on Saturday with host Dan Walker.

Today, Mr Walker tweeted: ‘Staggered by the news of Gary Speed’s death.

‘Was with him for most of yesterday. I genuinely cannot believe it. Thoughts with his family.’

Mr Speed – who was with Gary McAllister on the show – told Walker that there was nothing like playing football.