Redknapp struggling with Speed death

Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp says he has struggled to come to terms with the shock death of Gary Speed.

The 42-year-old former midfielder and Wales boss died on Sunday, with an inquest into his death told he was found by his wife hanged at home.

Redknapp, who is preparing for Tottenham’s Europa League encounter against PAOK on Wednesday, said he was stunned when told of Speed’s death.

“Ever since I heard the news on Sunday, it’s just all I can think about. It’s unbelievable really,” Redknapp said.

“He was a man who I never heard anyone say anything bad about. Everybody loved him.”

“As lots of people have mentioned, he was the most unlikely person you could ever see doing something like that. It’s just beyond belief.”

Sportspeople and politicians from around the world have continued to pay tribute to Speed since his death.

Redknapp said he felt for the players who were being managed by Speed, including Tottenham midfielder Gareth Bale.

“They were playing the type of football that Gary had wanted them to play, their passing looked fantastic and there was something special happening under Gary,” he said.

“It must be a massive blow for all those boys who were working with him.”