Dan Walker sends fans poignant message on anniversary of Gary Speed's death
WATCH NOW: GB News sport round-up
Former Football Focus presenter Dan Walker has shared an emotional tribute marking 13 years since the death of Gary Speed.
Walker took to social media to remember his friend and former colleague, sharing a poignant black-and-white portrait of the late Wales manager.
The tribute comes as the football community reflects on the anniversary of Speed's passing, which occurred on 27 November 2011.
In his social media post, Walker urged followers to reach out to friends who might be struggling.
"Maybe today is a right time to reach out to that friend or text that mate who you think might be struggling," Walker wrote alongside the portrait.
His message received widespread support from fellow celebrities, with broadcaster Zoe Ball responding: "Love to you DW and to Gary's family today and always."
Dan Walker paid tribute to Gary Speed in a touching post
PA
GB News' Eamonn Holmes and former boxer Tony Bellew were among those who showed their support for Walker's tribute.
Speed was just 42 years old when he died by suicide in 2011, leaving behind two teenage sons.
The tragedy particularly affected Walker, who had interviewed Speed on Football Focus just one day before his death.
The news sent shockwaves through the football world, with players, pundits and fans coming together to pay their respects to the Wales manager.
At the time, the football community was left devastated by the sudden loss of Speed, who had enjoyed a successful playing career.
Walker has previously shared emotional tributes to Speed, including a touching video for the 10th anniversary.
In the video, Walker broke down while recalling the moment he learned of Speed's death.
"As I looked at my phone there was a call from Alan," he said, wiping away tears. "He didn't even say hello, he just said 'Have you heard about Gary'."
"I remember I just walked home, really numb," Walker recalled.
Dan Walker broke down in tears as he paid homage to Gary Speed
PA
He shared the video hoping it would help others, writing: "I hope this helps someone."
On the 13th anniversary, football clubs including Newcastle United, Leeds United and Bolton Wanderers shared tributes to Speed on social media.
LATEST SPORTS NEWS:
- Player who failed to meet gender regulations over 'high testosterone' wins BBC Women's Footballer of the Year
- Gary Lineker changes career as BBC presenter lands new job in wake of Match of the Day exit
- Judd Trump 'feels sorry for the older generation' as snooker stars criticise conditions at UK Championship
Gary Speed was well-loved in the footballing world
PA
Pundit Chris Kamara added his own heartfelt message, writing: "13 years ago today we lost Gary Speed. Speedo was something else & you sometimes hear the phrase banded around 'everybody loved him' but I can assure you, everybody did in Speedo's case RIP."
The tributes demonstrate how Speed's legacy continues to resonate within the football community.
You may like
