"At 7:08 a.m. [Sunday], Cheshire police was informed of a sudden death at an address in Huntington, Chester," a police spokesperson 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."
"There are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death. The family have requested that they are left in peace to grieve at this difficult time. A family tribute will be released at a later date but not today."
Speed was known as a consumate professional during his lengthy career in English and international soccer. He played for Leeds, Everton, Newcastle, Bolton and Sheffield United during his playing days which ran from 1988-2010.
He held the record for most English Premier League appearances with 535 before David James passed him in 2010. He also made 85 appearances for the Welsh national team.
"The Football Association of Wales are sad to announce the death of the national team manager Gary Speed," a statement from the Wales FA read. "We extend our sympathies and condolences to the family. We ask that everyone respects the family's privacy at this very sad time."
Wales improved 45 places in the FIFA rankings since Speed took charge in Dec. 2010.
