SHEFFIELD United manager Kevin Blackwell paid tribute to Gary Speed following his side's victory at Blackpool.
The former Wales international delivered a midfield master-class, scoring one goal and creating another, as the visitors netted three times for the second Championship outing in succession.
Describing Speed, who turns 39 next month, as one of the most influential players in the Championship, Blackwell said: "I just plug him in on a Monday.
"He's an inspiration, I love working with him.
"If you're working with someone who, at 38, when you've told him he's done enough running says he actually wants to do some more ... well, that sets a terrific example to the rest of the lads.
"I've said before that he's a freak of nature and I'm enjoying having the freak on board.
"Long may it continue.
"He knew when to play, knew when to put his foot in, knew when to hit it clean, knew when to bring it down.
"That was a terrfic lesson, and the Gary Speeds of this world are few and far between.
"I think the kids of this country should go and watch Gary Speed before he goes out of the game.
"I could eulogise about him all day.
"If people want to know the meaning of the word 'professionalism' then they should come and look at him."
Despite being made to fight all the way by gutsy opponents, Blackwell's team, who face Huddersfield in the Carling Cup second round on Wednesday, were well worth their win with Stephen Quinn snatching the opener before Speed doubled their advantage from the spot.
Former United striker Steven Kabba pulled one back for Blackpool but Greg Halford replied soon after.
Revealing that he had tried to sign Speed during his previous spell in charge of Leeds, Blackwell added: "I tried to get him when I was there and the club had just popped out of the Premier League.
"I tried and tried, thought I'd got him and then didn't.
"He'd have been an inspiration for Leeds just like he is here at Sheffield United.
"We made a conscious decision that this was a big game for us because I don't think too many teams will come here and take all three points.
"Blackpool never give up, that's why they'll cause problems - they're a hard working side."
What do you think? Add your comments below.
READ MOREMain news indexYour letters.
FeaturesMore Rotherham newsMore Doncaster newsMore Barnsley newsCheck out the very latest on South Yorkshire's roads - including live traffic cameras on Sheffield's commuter routes - with our Traffic sectionLatest sport. The full article contains 440 words and appears in Sheffield Star newspaper.
