THOUSANDS of fans joined as one to celebrate the late Gary Speed with a minute's applause at St James' Park.
The tribute was made at Newcastle United’s first home game since the former midfielder was found dead at his Cheshire home last Sunday.
Both Newcastle and their opponents Chelsea took a minute to stand in the centre of the pitch and break into a rapturous applause to pay tribute to the star, who later went on to become manager of Wales.
Loyal supporters chanted like they did during Speed’s time at Newcastle between 1998 and 2004 shouting “there’s only one Gary Speed” and “Speedo”.
But the touching tribute was too much for some of Speed’s closest North East friends, and assistant manager John Carver could be seen breaking down as he stood on the sidelines during the tribute.
Carver, who counted the 42-year-old as a true friend, having worked with him during his time as number two to Sir Bobby Robson, was comforted by fourth official Mark Halsey.
Players Steve Harper, Shola Ameobi and Steven Taylor, who all played alongside Speed during his six-year stint at the club, were also holding back the tears. Fans rallied spirits with their continued chants and a further uproar of applause was heard at the 11th minute – marking the number Speed wore during his time at Newcastle.
Newcastle United decided to postpone part of their tribute after Speed’s wife Louise said she wanted to come to St James’ Park to thank the region for their support.
They had intended to sing Welsh hymn Guide Me Thou, O Great Redeemer, also known as Bread of Heaven, to remember the life of the former midfielder, but it has now been rescheduled for the next home game on December 17 when Mrs Speed will be in attendance.
Mrs Speed couldn’t attend the Newcastle game on Saturday as she and her two sons, Edward and Thomas, joined Leeds United fans at Elland Road for their tributes to Speed.
Further respects were paid by North East supporters who continued to place floral wreaths and football shirts at a makeshift shrine to Speed outside the Milburn stand at St James’ Park. Fans gathered before and after Saturday’s match to read some of the messages left there.
One read: “A model pro on and off the pitch. Sadly missed by all.”
Another simply said: “Loved by his club. Adored by millions. RIP Speedo.”
One fan wrote: “Gary Speed 1969 - 2011. A man, a leader, a legend. Look down from heaven our number eleven.”
