7 famous footballers who committed suicide

#4 Gary Speed (1969-2011)

Gary Speed holds up a Wales shirt with his name on the back

Born on 8 September 1969, Gary Andrew Speed was a Welsh footballer and manager. Termed as be one of the best players for over a decade in the history of English first division football, Speed was best known for his time from1988 to 1996 at Leeds United where he helped the club in winning its third first-division title.

Beginning his career with Leeds, Speed signed his first professional contract in June 1988 where he made his first-team debut at the age of 19. He also went on to play for Everton, Newcastle United, Bolton and Sheffield United.

In December 2006, Speed became the first player to make 500 Premier League appearances when he played in Bolton's 4–0 victory over West Ham United. His record of 535 appearances was later overtaken by David James and Ryan Giggs.

Besides being such a huge success at the club level, Speed attained 85 international caps for Wales, making him the second highest capped player in the history of Wales. He also captained the country on 44 occasions.

On 27 November 2011, just a day after he had appeared on a television show, Speed was found hanging in the garage of his home. Although his wife called an ambulance, it was too late and the coroner stated that the cause of death was by “self-suspension”.

A Gary Speed Memorial international match was played between Wales and Costa Rica

Among those who sent their condolences were footballers, former players, managers and even politicians. Welsh flags were kept at half-mast as a mark of respect and players such as Craig Bellamy were unable to play that weekend after hearing the news.