Chris Coleman leads Gary Speed tributes on emotional night for Wales as team qualifies for Euro 2016
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px”][text_output]A quick search of twitter pictures from Wales’ Euro 2016 qualifier vs Bosnia-Herzegovina moments after the final whistle blew on Saturday evening revealed five of the top six images had just been posted as tributes to former Wales manager and ‘son’ of Deeside Gary Speed.
The tone had been set for many emotional tributes to the great man in light of the national teams success.
Gary’s influence lives on within the Welsh squad, the work he put into the current set up of the national side is very much a part of the Welsh success story and a big part of Gary’s legacy.
Take nothing away from Chris Coleman, having taken the role of Wales national manager in such tragic circumstances, he has done a stunning job guiding this talented crop of players into Wales’ first major football championship since the 1950’s
Although Wales lost 2-0 on the night qualification came thanks to Cyprus’ 2-1 away win in Israel, wild celebrations began in Zenica as Wales fans realised they were heading to France 2016.
Current Wales manager Chris Coleman, David Beckham, Robbie Savage, as well as Speed’s father, Roger were joined by thousands of people from all parts of the UK paying tribute to Gary.
Post match, Manager Coleman led the tributes to Gary Speed he said;
“Its has been a fantastic campaign. Gary Speed played his part and i’m sure he is smiling tonight.”Hundreds if not thousands took to social media to celebrate the win”
While former England captain David Beckham posted a picture of Gary on his Instagram page;
“This man would have been very proud”
Roger Speed, father of former Wales captain and manager Gary told the BBC;
“I’m absolutely delighted Wales have finally done it. And it gives me immense pride that Gary’s name has been mentioned – by the players and the fans – so often along the way in this qualifying campaign.
“I was down in Cardiff for the draw against Israel last month and I’ve never experienced an atmosphere like it. The fans started singing Gary’s favourite song – I Can’t Take My Eyes Off You – and then chanted his name. It really got to me. The hairs on the back of my neck stood up. I was in tears.
Former Wales player turned ‘pundit’ Robbie Savage tweeted;
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@FAWales @DeesideDotCom dear Gary Speed. Could not stop by without walking past your resting place tonight on way home . Wales loves you xx
— President of Wales (@SharpsLen) October 10, 2015
We did it for Gary speed! #neverforget! Xxx pic.twitter.com/tZSri7usF5 — Mike Jones (@mikejonesrfc) October 10, 2015
“I know he’s been watching from above & cheering the team on” Gary Speed’s father on Wales http://t.co/BOjI7R3PId pic.twitter.com/MTp5tO2Irx
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) October 10, 2015
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