While most of my friends here in England tuned in to catch the friendly between England and Holland, England's first game after Capello's resignation and serving as a test for many of England's younger players, England's neighbour Wales witnessed their national team take Costa Rica on. The latter game in my opinion, was a more important spectacle, as although it was a friendly match, it was one commemorating the late Gary Speed who passed away more than two months ago. I didn't watch the game but read the match report and saw the many photos taken from an emotional evening. It was great to see the amount of tribute paid to the late Wales manager and I hope that this served to comfort his loved ones with the knowledge that Speedo had such an indelible impact in British football. He oversaw considerable success as manager of his national team but I for one remember him as a commanding midfielder at Newcastle who always gave 100% in every game he played in. His experience and influence proved vital in the Magpies' revival under Sir Bobby. A model professional who did his talking on the pitch and who looked after himself, it comes as little surprise to see him ranked among the very top when it comes to clocking Premiership appearances. I always found it amusing that he wasn't the quickest of players (he was already about 30 when I began following the game) but he more than made up for this with his great passing and heading ability, and contributed with his fair share of goals. I was personally devastated by his loss. In today's world of football where money and glamour speaks louder than ever, his demise is even more palpable. He will be sorely missed and I know that all Geordies will always remember Speedo with great fondness. R.I.P.
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