GARY Speed might be approaching his 35th birthday but he is showing no sign of easing up.

The new Reebok favourite already holds the record for Premiership appearances and on Wednesday night he will win his 81st cap when he captains Wales in their friendly in Latvia -- just 11 short of Neville Southall's national record.

Two games in five days isno problem for the super-fit midfielder whose staying power has younger men gasping in disbelief.

"This first couple of weeks of the season is always a busy time because we always seem to have internationals to play," Speed said as prepared for the game in Riga, fresh from his impressive Wanderers' debut in Saturday's 4-1 thumping of Charlton.

"But I did it last year and I'll do it again this year and for as long as I can.

"I'm sure if the manager (Mark Hughes) thinks I can't do it, he'll tell me.'

Speed is not concerned with records but he is determined to extend his career.

"I had a good rest in the summer after playing over 60 games last season and I needed to switch off," he said.

"Now I am with Bolton, the set-up is very fitness-orientated and I feel it will do me good because I feel as fit as ever and I am ready to go.

"I don't see it as a new lease of life, but it is so organised and so professional at Bolton that it is what I needed at this stage.

"People say there are some old players here but the fitness regime is such that, if you are not fit, you don't play, regardless of how old or young you are.

"Some people were saying to me pre-season that it's easy for me because I'm a good runner but it's just as hard for me as for anyone else, even though I am a fit lad."

Speed -- the consummate professional who won the old League Championship with Leeds United in 1992 -- has overcome the disappintment of being told he was surplus to requirements at Newcastle. He turned in an outstanding performance against Charlton, striking up an instant understanding with Jay-Jay Okocha and Ivan Campo.

Okocha is delighted. "Gary Speed is a great signing," the captain aid. "We can only profit from his experience in the Premiership. You could see he has been in the league for a while. He doesn't need anyone to tell him what to do, other than to try and build on what we have achieved.

"We are all happy to have him around."

The feeling is mutual with Speed already enjoying life at the Reebok.

"I've been made to feel welcome straight away and that's made it easier on the pitch," he added. "Playing with great players in midfield, like Jay-Jay and Ivan, makes it even easier."

Cheered to the rafters by the fans and praised to high heaven by Sam Allardyce, who had no hesitation in paying Newcastle £750,000 for his services, Speed has been impressed by his new surroundings.

"The atmosphere was good and the crowd was great but it always helps when you are winning," he said, reflecting on his debut.

"I'm sure the fans enjoyed it. Hopefully we can give them a lot more to shout about.