Wales Football - dragonsoccer - Welsh International Football

THE STARS COME OUT FOR GARY.

Wednesday 29th February 2012 will be a very special night at the Cardiff City Stadium as the whole of Wales will pay tribute to the memory of one of its most famous sons: Gary Speed MBE.

Former Wales international footballer and manager Gary left us in tragic circumstances last November. The match with Costa Rica will be part of a larger tribute to a man who was part of Welsh Football for more than twenty years and was guiding his young team to greater things.

However, the football match is only part of the celebrations. The Football Association of Wales is delighted to be able to announce a star-studded line-up of Welsh musical talent who will be performing before the game and at half time.

All areas of Welsh music are coming-together for the occasion.

From the world of rock and pop, needing no introduction, we welcome ‘Super Furry Animals’.

Mike Peters, formerly of ‘The Alarm’, now with ‘Big Country’, will be playing a set.

The incomparable Bryn Terfel will be singing, accompanied by the Risca Male Voice Choir.

Former Miss Wales, Courtenay Hamilton, will once again sing the anthem.

‘Only Men Aloud’ will be featured before the match and at half time, performing in their unique style that has won them a legion of fans.

The footballing greats of Wales have not been forgotten either. Invitations have been sent to some eighty former internationals that played alongside Gary during his career and many of them will be at the ground to pay their tribute at half time. Former clubs of Gary’s are also sending representatives, plus some of his former club team-mates and managers will be in attendance, including Alan Shearer and Howard Wilkinson. All of Gary’s family will be present.

Fans are urged to be at the stadium from 6.15pm onwards as the entertainment will start straight away with presentations on the big screen. The live entertainment will start towards 7pm. Full refreshments will be available at the concourse bars and snack bars, so why not get-in early, enjoy a drink and listen to the top-line artists who will be helping to make it a special night for all concerned.

Tickets can be purchased from Cardiff City FC. Tel: 0845 345 1400.

Further information from:

www.cardiffcityfc.co.uk

Prices are: £10 adults, £5 juniors and senior citizens.

COLEMAN IN CHARGE
Chris Coleman has been confirmed as new Wales manager.

"Whilst on one hand it's probably the proudest moment of my career to be given the opportunity to lead my country, but then to be given that opportunity because of the circumstances nobody could foresee, so it's bittersweet for me, of course it is, I was very close friends with Gary, 30 years, so it's a difficult experience for me. It's probably the most difficult press conference I've ever done or ever had to do I imagine. But I'm very proud to be the new manager and I'm also very sad because of the situation we find ourselves in." - Chris Coleman.

“This has been a very difficult process .We have explored every avenue, every scenario possible. We have taken on board the thoughts and views of the backroom staff, the players and the supporters."

"All along we believe that we have been respectful and dignified and had no wish to be involved in a public debate on the appointment of Gary’s successor."