The former assistant manager of Gary Speed has talked about how hard it is to remember the time right following his passing.
Osian Roberts claimed he made an effort to cope “internally” with the death of his “very close” friend.
In November 2011, at the age of 42, Speed took his own life while serving as Wales’ manager.
Roberts claimed that the “hardest game” was a contest that Wales played in memory of Speed after his passing.
Roberts, who is presently receiving care, stated, “[Speed’s death] was a huge loss because I was losing a friend, someone very close.”
According to Roberts, “When that happens, it’s a huge shock and I’ve probably battled with those feelings ever since,” Taith Bywyd of S4C said.
“I’m a man who likes to prepare for things and this was a period where I couldn’t,” he added.
“Since then, I’ve just tried to deal with it internally.
“I’m not sure if it’s the right way but that’s the way I’ve tried to deal with it. And at times, it’s hard to think about that period of time because we lost a very special man.”
He said the Gary Speed Memorial International Match between Wales and Costa Rica was “the hardest game for me”.
“I can’t remember anything about the result or the game – the football was secondary that night,” he explained.
He recalled former Wales captain Ashley Williams coming to him at half time and saying: “Osh, I can’t run. I can’t feel my legs.”
“The boys, psychologically, were gone,” Roberts added.
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