Remembering the late, great Gary Speed
Players come and go at clubs, but some, like ex-Newcastle United midfielder Gary Speed, leave a lasting impression on fans – and journalists.
Gary Speed tragically passed away 13 years ago today.
In a blink of an eye, I can think back to Speed bossing a midfield in the colours of Newcastle United – or sitting in his car at the club’s old Riverside training ground in Chester-le-Street taking my questions.
I was fortunate to get to know Speed during my early years as a sports writer – I ghost wrote his column for a local newspaper – and he was as impressive off the pitch as he was on it.
Speed, one of Sir Bobby Robson’s so-called “Blue Chip Brigade” along with the likes of Alan Shearer and Shay Given, wasn’t the most controversial columnist, but if he had something to say, he’d say it.
I can only imagine what Speed was like in the club’s dressing room when something needed to be addressed.
As I’ve written before, Speed had his critics at times, but his team-mates – and Sir Bobby – knew his value to the team.
I was just starting out as a football writer when I was asked to do his column, and he was always approachable and helpful. It was an education for me. Speed also donated his modest fees for the column to charity.
Players come and go at clubs, but some leave a lasting impression on fans – and journalists.
Speed – who tragically took his own life in 2011 – was one such player, and he’ll never be forgotten on Tyneside.