Town striker Michael Chopra has paid tribute to his former Newcastle United team-mate Gary Speed, whose death at 42 was announced earlier today.

Chopra tweeted: “RIP Gary Speed thoughts are with your family. Proud to have known and played with such a great guy in Speedo - #totallydevastated.”

Several other current members of the Blues squad have similarly paid their respects, keeper David Stockdale, a fan of the Leeds side which Speed helped to the 1992 Football League title, amongst them: “Sad news today. Leeds legend and sadly missed. Watched him at Elland Road a lot. Thoughts are with his family and friends. “

Former Blue Titus Bramble, like Chopra a team-mate of the Wales manager at St James’ Park, also paid tribute: “RIP Gary Speed. I'm in total shock. One of the greatest guys I've worked with in football. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.”

Ex-Town skipper Jason De Vos added: "Condolences to the Speed family. Gary was a tough opponent, a top pro, and as down-to-earth as you get. Sad loss for football."

Photo: Action Images

Photo: Action Images

algarvefan added 00:19 - Nov 28 I think everyone, like me, is just so shocked at such a sad loss, a model pro and sadly a man with a young family. Hope our press pay his family the respect they deserve and give them the space they need. RIP Gary. :(
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scunnyblue added 00:34 - Nov 28 Absolutely shocking and sad news. If there is such a thing as a model pro nowadays then Gary Speed would be one of the first names i would personally put on that list. My thoughts go out to his family and friends. God bless Gary
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TractorBeezer added 00:51 - Nov 28 Very sad and surprising. My sincerest condolences to Gary's family and friends.
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planetblue_2011 added 08:04 - Nov 28 RIP Gary Speed you was a great footballer. This news was very upsetting & a huge shock. My thoughts are with his family & friends
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1972Blue added 08:40 - Nov 28 Why on earth did this happen... Gary Was a model Pro, great guy, Great player. I'm very sad about this. Truly puts things into perspective. Don't even care about our poor performances on the pitch now... I just hope this raises awareness to all those that are suffering in any way shape and form. Gary is an example of this, everything seemed to be going for him, just shows how fragile we are.

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buryblue77 added 10:29 - Nov 28 Puts things into perpespective really, how we moan about yet another dismal performance whilst tragic events such as this one happen. Fantastic player and would have made a great manager. Model prefessional and a great loss to the game. Thoughts with his family at this time. RIP Gary.
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fanofblue added 11:20 - Nov 28 I was deeply saddened to hear the tragic news about Gary Speed,he was a terrfic professional player and a really genuine guy.My sincere thoughts go out to his family.The world of football has lost someone who was a great player and who was also becoming a very good manager.
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AlanMahon2011 added 11:39 - Nov 28 Thought Chops only had a bet 365 account, not a twitter one?!
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buryblue77 added 12:49 - Nov 28 AlanMahon, in slightly bad taste don't you think?
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