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George Best

George Best was a footballer from Northern Ireland, who spent his most successful years playing for Manchester United. On form, Best was one of the most dazzling and attractive footballers of his generation. He had the rare ability to dribble past opponents and could be a real match winner.

George Best was born in Belfast, Northern Ireland. His parents were Protestants and members of the Orange Order. At the age of 15, his talent was spotted by a scout (Bob Bishop) working for Manchester United. Bishop famously sent Busby a telegram stating – “I think I’ve found you a genius.” Best was invited over to Manchester, and despite initially suffering home-sickness settled into Manchester and worked through the youth ranks to become an established member of the first team.

Best made his first team debut for Manchester United in 1963, and over the next 11 years played 361 games, scoring 137 goals. He was a key figure in Busby’s successful Manchester teams of the 1960s. With Best at the peak of his prowess, Manchester won the First Division in 1965 and 1967. His greatest moment, perhaps came in the 1968 European Cup final, where Best helped Manchester to defeat Benfica 4-1 in the final at Wembley. That year he was also named ‘European player of the year’