We take a look at some of the most memorable moments from George Best’s short-lived football career, at both Man United and abroad.
The attacker scored some 179 goals in 470 outings, solidifying himself as one of the best players to ever play.
San Jose Earthquakes – 1981
This looks like something Lionel Messi would conjure up – but it’s actually Best playing for the San Jose Earthquakes at the Spartan Stadium in 1981 against the Fort Lauderdale Strikers.
It’s quite something to see Best weave so delicately in the box and manage to forge an opening for a shot. Best danced around no less than five defenders displaying his famous ball control and finished the moment with a shot.
Man United v Benfica -1968
Best here with a crucial effort during the European Cup Final of 1968 – when Man Utd played Benfica and beat the Portugese side 4-1.
The Red Devils player was a star throughout the game but on 92 minutes, he latched onto a loose ball and cooly placed it past the keeper
Man United v Northampton 1970
This is the game where Best arguably played the best of his career, socirng a double hat trick.
He returned to the pitch after a lengthy ban and scored a barrage of goals.
We’ve chosen his sixth goal here, the way in which he was able to make the goalkeeper fall to the ground with ease is utterly delightful.
Man United v Spurs 1971
Best scored his superb goal against Spurs – and it’s the one that’s really gone down the ages.
A fumble from the goalkeeper and Best, with the ball at his feet, was left with a group of Spurs players and the goalkeeper in front of him.
Somehow he manages to loft the ball over the entire crowd and into the net. It was a wonderful moment of magic.
Featured image credit: Getty