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Wales Online
Wales Online
Sport
Ian Mitchelmore

The moment Wales fans paid a stunning tribute to Gary Speed in the middle of a match

This was the moment the Red Wall paid a touching tribute to Gary Speed on what would have been the former Wales player and manager's 52nd birthday.

The Red Dragons hosted Estonia in a World Cup qualifier on Wednesday night, and in the 52nd minute of the fixture at Cardiff City Stadium, supporters rose to their feet and applauded in respect of the iconic midfielder.

Prior to the match, the Football Association of Wales wrote on Twitter: "On 52 minutes #TheRedWall will clap in honour of Gary Speed on what would have been his 52nd birthday. Penblwydd Hapus Gary."

Early on in the opening half, the Red Wall chanted "Sing a song for Speedo, we will never let you go" in respect of the Welsh football legend.

And during the minute of applause, Speed's image was shown on the stadium's two giant TV screens.

Speed won 85 caps for his country between 1990 and 2004, scoring seven goals.

A tribute to former manager and player Gary Speed in the 52nd minute (Gareth Everett/Huw Evans Agency)

He went on to take charge of the national side in 2010 and won five of 10 matches as Wales boss.

However, he tragically took his own life on November 27, 2011 at the age of just 42.

Speed played a key role in the nation's rise from 117th place in the FIFA rankings, that culminated in them reaching the semi-finals of Euro 2016 under Chris Coleman.

Wales will move up to second in their World Cup qualifying group with victory over Estonia.

You can follow live updates of Wales v Estonia right here.

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