WALES players and staff held a minute silence during a training session on the day that marked 11 years since the death of Gary Speed.

The 42-year-old former Hawarden High School pupil and Aston Park Rangers player was Wales manager when he took his own life on November 27, 2011.

In his heyday, Speed was a much-loved and hard-working midfielder for Leeds United, Everton, Newcastle United, Bolton Wanderers and Sheffield United.

Speed, born in Mancot, also earned 85 caps for Wales and is high up on the Premier League's all-time appearance-makers with 535 of those to his name.

During a training session on Sunday, November 27 - ahead of the crucial World Cup match against England on Tuesday, November 29 - Wales players and staff paused to reflect on Speed's contribution to the national team.

Read more: Leeds United fans raise over £60,000 through walk in memory of Gary Speed

The Wales team huddled together to fall silent in tribute to the man who arguably set them on their way to enjoying the glory years which have followed his death.

You can watch a poignant video of the moment posted by the Football Association of Wales (FAW) below ...

Wales are, of course, appearing in their first World Cup tournament since 1958.

Following a 1-1 draw v the USA and a 2-0 defeat to Iran, they now need to beat old foes England on Tuesday to stand any chance of progressing from Group B.

Several of Speed's former clubs also paid tribute to him via their social media pages.

 

Newcastle United wrote: "Today marks 11 years since we sadly lost Gary Speed.

"Legend. Leader. Loved. You'll never be forgotten, Speedo."

Everton Football Club added: "The football world lost a true great 11 years ago today.

"Gary Speed. Gentleman. Evertonian. Forever in our hearts."