Costa Rica to play Wales in Speed tribute

Costa Rica have been confirmed as Wales’ opponents for next month’s Gary Speed Memorial match.

The South American side, against whom Speed made his international debut in 1990, will visit Cardiff City Stadium on 29 February for a 7.45pm kick-off.

A statement from the Football Association of Wales read: “This will be an opportunity to celebrate the life and achievements of a great servant to Welsh football, both as a player and as a manager.”

Speed made 85 appearances for Wales, scoring seven goals. In a club career in which he scored more than 100 goals, he played for Leeds United, Everton, Newcastle United, Bolton Wanderers and Sheffield United.

The world of football and beyond was shocked by the news that the player was found hanged on 26 November last year.

Tickets go on sale on 11 January, priced a £10 for adults and £5 for concessions, with 10 per cent of profits donated to charity.