WALES honoured the late Gary Speed during the 0-0 World Cup qualifier with Estonia.
The Red Wall showed their respect to ex-manager Speed with a 60-second applause in the 52nd minute of the Group E clash.
Tragic Speed died almost ten years ago in November 2011 when the then Wales boss took his own life at his home on the outskirts of Chester.
The 85-cap Dragons midfielder would have had his 52nd birthday on Wednesday.
Wales fans rose to their feet and sung ‘Speedo’ during the touching applause at the Cardiff City Stadium.
And his face was shown on the big screens at each end of the ground – the same venue where he took charge of Wales for the final time before his death against Norway.
Earlier, Wales announced the tribute would happen when they tweeted on their official account: “On 52 minutes #TheRedWall will clap in honour of Gary Speed on what would have been his 52nd birthday.
“Penblwydd Hapus Gary #WALEST #TogetherStronger | #TheRedWall.”
Speed had a stellar career with Leeds, Everton, Newcastle, Bolton and Sheffield United.
Then he was the national manager for almost a year before his passing at the age of just 42.
Unfortunately for Wales, they were unable to beat Estonia on Wednesday.
Gareth Bale and Co were held to a 0-0 draw at home despite dominating possession and peppering the Estonian goal with plenty of shots.
Wales now look unlikely to automatically qualify for Qatar 2022 after falling nine points behind Group E leaders Belgium.
And Robert Page’s men will now be looking to wrap up a play-off spot as quickly as possible.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
