Football fraternity mourns Welsh manager Gary Speed's death

London, Nov 28(ANI): Manchester United footballer Ryan Giggs led tributes for Wales manager Gary Speed, who was found hanging at his home on November 28.

"I am totally devastated. Gary Speed was one of the nicest men in football, someone I am honoured to call a team-mate and friend. Words cannot begin to describe how sad I feel at hearing this awful news. My thoughts are with his family at this tremendously sad time," The Sun quoted Giggs, as saying.

Welsh Football Association President Phil Pritchard said: "I am completely shocked by this terrible news and my thoughts are with his family. We will do whatever we can as an association to help them in this difficult time."

"It is a sad, sad day. I played with him when I came through the ranks. He helped me through. He was an absolute machine - the best professional in football," defender Steven Taylor said.

"He had that aura about him. He always had time for the young lads and helped them feel good about themselves," he added.

West Ham manager Sam Allardyce, described him as 'a great lad', who was always eager to learn.

Speed's assistant Raymond Verheije said he was a beautiful person and a top manager.

Manchester United and England striker Michael Owen was among Premier League stars who condoled Speed's death on Twitter.

"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," Owen tweeted. (ANI)