'A true gentleman': Fans of Newcastle, Leeds, Sheffield United and other clubs pay tribute to Gary Speed nine years after tragic passing

The Welsh international made 270 appearances for the Magpies and was also admired during his playing days at Leeds, Everton, Bolton and Sheffield United.

Fans from across the country have been paying their tributes to Speed on social media – here are some of the messages:

@FarnanM: This man was one of the true gentlemen of our sport, I was so honoured to have worked with him. What a player, coach ,manager, friend, father, everybody loved you at SUFC and all the other great clubs you were associated with your sadly missed Speedo by so many # SUFC

@paulthomase: RIP Gary from a Mackem. Rivalry aside when it comes to men’s mental health

@shingnufc: Rip Speedo, forever in our hearts!

@CoulsonMc: Gary Speed was part of the Leeds side I fell in love with, a true legend of our club and the sport as a whole, sadly missed

@NBruceout: RIP Never forgotten

@chrisbiggin: One of the nicest, most thoughtful and most insightful people I’ve met, not just through football but across medicine, sport and life in general. Deeply missed.

@Padraig62309256: Never forgotten, love and respect to his family and friends

@MonsieurSharp: Gone much too soon. A hero in Black and White.

@TheWiganParky: Tragic, tragic loss. My heart goes out to his family.

@BelfastNUFC: One of the most elegant footballers I’ve seen in a black and white shirt.

@Carl_TftG: Gone but never forgotten! RIP Speedo

@J8GGER: Miss watching you play at St James’ Park RIP

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