North West Mourns Gary Speed

The football world is united in mourning after the death of popular Wales manager Gary Speed at his Chester home left players and fans asking: "Why?''

The 42-year-old father of two was found hanged at his home on Sunday morning, just a day after appearing on live television and chatting to fellow footballing figures, who expressed shock and disbelief.

Tributes to the former Leeds United, Everton and Newcastle United midfielder poured in from a host of public figures, including Prime Minister David Cameron and First Minister of Wales Carwyn Jones.

Cheshire Police confirmed that Speed's body was discovered at the property in Huntington, on the outskirts of Chester, and said there were ``no suspicious circumstances''.Sources said he was found hanged.

A police spokeswoman said: ``Officers went to the scene where a 42-year-old man was found dead. The next of kin have been informed and have confirmed the identity of the man as Gary Speed.''

The Football Association of Wales (FAW) announced Speed's death on its website and expressed its condolences to his relatives and described Speed as a ``versatile'' player who had enjoyed an ``exemplary'' career.

Speed, whose career on the pitch also included stints at Bolton Wanderers and Sheffield United, was appointed manager of Wales in December 2010 after retiring as a player in May last year.

He took charge of Wales for the first time in February, with his last game as manager on November 12 when the team won 4-1 in a friendly against Norway.

On Saturday afternoon he appeared on BBC One's Football Focus show.

Awarded the MBE in the 2010 Birthday Honours for his services to football, Speed leaves a wife, Louise, and two sons, Ed and Tommy.