Wales unveil ex-captain Gary Speed as new manager

Former captain Gary Speed has been unveiled as the new manager of Wales.

The 41-year-old, who only has four months of managerial experience, succeeds John Toshack who stepped down in September.

Sheffield United handed Speed his first job in August but the Blades have let him go after compensation was paid by the Football Association of Wales.

"It's something that's very difficult to turn down when your country comes calling," said Speed.

"I am a very proud man at this moment to be asked to be manager of Wales."

Speed, who is Wales' most capped outfield player with 85, has signed a three-and-a-half year deal.

He has less managerial experience than the likes of former Sweden manager Lars Lagerbeck, ex-Fulham and Coventry boss Chris Coleman and Wales caretaker manager and youth boss Brian Flynn, who were all interviewed by the FAW for the vacant position.

Former Wales striker John Hartson is another candidate to have applied for the post vacated by Toshack, following a poor start to the Euro 2012 qualifying campaign.

Speed replaced Kevin Blackwell as Blades boss in August having already been part of the backroom team at Bramall Lane, but has struggled on his managerial debut.

United lost half of Speed's 18 games in charge, leaving them one point and two places above the Championship relegation zone.

Wales are bottom of their qualifying group for Euro 2012, losing all three matches they have played.

Their next Group G qualifier is against England on 26 March.

More to follow.