FORMER Saints striker Alan Shearer paid tribute to his friend and former Newcastle United team-mate Gary Speed, who died today aged 42.

Cheshire Police confirmed he was found dead at his home on the outskirts of Chester and said there were "no suspicious circumstances".

Press Association sources confirmed Speed was found hanged.

Shearer, who played alongside Speed at Newcastle for six years between 1998 and 2004, formed a close friendship with the Welshman and said today: "Gary was a magnificent person, bright, fun and a wonderful family man - he lit up every room he walked into.

"I am proud to have been his friend and will miss him dreadfully."