TRIBUTES are pouring in for Gary Speed after his death this morning at the age of 42.

Former Wales team-mate Robbie Savage told BBC News: "I just can't believe it. He was my mate and he's gone.

"I've got very close to Gary in the last few years - the guy is a trooper, he's left two gorgeous kids behind and a beautiful wife. He had everything, he had everything.

"I spoke to him yesterday and we were laughing and joking - he was saying make sure you dont get a two off Craig (Revel Horwood, the Strictly Come Dancing judge) tonight, you know.

"Thats what Gary's like - he always thinks about other people.

"As my captain when I was a young boy in the squad, he'd come to me and I could go to him with my problems."

Howard Wilkinson, his manager at Leeds, told BBC Radio 5 live: "He had so much to offer as a person and as a sportsman.

"I just find it unbelievable. I cannot start to try to understand what his family are going through.

"Gary had a lot of talent and that talent became his job. Footballers are subject to all the stress and strains of things that happen in life.

"He was a star in the truest sense. For him at 42 to leave us is such a tragic loss. He had a life of success to look forward to."

A Leeds Unitedspokesman said the club was "stunned and saddened" to hear about Speed's death. Fans gathered at the Elland Road ground to pay their respects and leave floral tributes.

Current Leeds manager Simon Grayson added: "We signed on the same day and played in the youth and reserve teams together.

"We also did all our coaching badges together. He was a good friend and this is a very sad day. Gary was such a popular person and this is a hard time for everybody."

Aston Villa manager Alex McLeish said: "My blood ran cold when I heard the news - its absolutely horrific.

"Gary was doing fantastic with the Welsh team. It's very sad news."

Hugh Robertson, the Minister for Sport and the Olympics, said: "This is tragic and sad news. Gary Speed was a wonderful servant to his clubs and country throughout his career. My thoughts are with his family."

Secretary of State for Wales Cheryl Gillan said: "This is a sad day for football and for everyone in Wales. Gary Speed served club and country as a player and manager with great distinction."

Welsh international captain and Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey tweeted: "I was given the tragic news this morning. To say I am devastated is an understatement.

"My thoughts and prayers go out to Gary's family and friends. Today the world has lost a great football manager but even more sadly a great man. He will be missed by all."

Newcastle defender Steven Taylor, who came into the first team at St James Park when Speed was the side's senior professional, expressed his gratitude for the help the midfielder gave him at the club.

"It is a sad, sad day. I played with him when I came through the ranks," Taylor told Radio Five Live.

"He helped me through, he was an absolute machine - the best professional in football.

"He had that aura about him. He always had time for the young lads and helped them feel good about themselves."