Gary Andrew Speed MBE started his career as a trainee with Leeds United in 1988, being initially assigned to clean Peter Swan's football boots before signing pro terms later that year. Initially playing as a left back, the young Speed caught manager Howard Wilkinson's eye and was promptly given his debut in a goalless draw against Oldham in the then Second Division. Speed would go on to be an crucial part of the Second division winning team and then the First division title winning team, playing in no less than 10 outfield positions during his Leeds career (although generally with a view to accommodating his 'wand' of a left foot). Along with the aforementioned trio of Batty, Strachan and McAllister, Speed completed what became arguably the most feared and effective midfields of that era, bringing with them a footballing style and success that hasn't really been matched since at Elland Road. Another 'complete' footballer, Speed could play almost anywhere and was as comfortable bursting through on goal-scoring runs as he was sitting back and picking out team mates with delicate long range passes. However, what possibly elevates Speed beyond other Leeds United cult heroes was his nature and attitude as a person. An absolute gentleman on and off the field, he was widely regarded as one of football's true professionals and respected throughout the game. Loved by all that he came into contact with, he holds cult status at not only Leeds United but also Newcastle United, Everton (his boyhood team as a fan) and Bolton Wanderers, where he saw out his final days as a footballer. Speed's Leeds highlights are many, with the player having had a particular knack of scoring last minute important goals. Probably the greatest of these came in the European Cup at home to Stuttgart in September 1992. Having lost the game 3-0 in the first leg in Germany, Leeds needed something special at home. Speed chose the occasion to score a scorching left foot volley, a goal the player described as his best ever and although Leeds seemed to have lost the tie on away goals, they eventually went through on a technicality. Tragically, the footballing world lost one of the greats when Speed passed away suddenly in November 2011. Clubs across the country united in mourning, but none felt is so much as the fans of Leeds United who remembered the great Gary Speed as a true hero of the club. Did you enjoy this list? Share your thoughts below in the comments thread and please follow me on Twitter - @jezaldinho
