Book of condolence opens for Best in Belfast

A book of condolence has been opened in Belfast following the death of George Best on Friday.

The 59-year-old died in hospital following a long battle with serious illness.

The Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Wallace Browne, paid tribute to former footballer saying he wanted to extend sympathy to George’s family "on behalf of all the people of Belfast".

“George Best was one of the true greats of the footballing world – a tremendously gifted player. To many people he is a legend, an icon," Cllr. Browne said.

“His footballing talent proved an inspiration to generations of younger players, inspiring them to pull on their boots and follow their own dreams – and, for a lucky few, to follow him to the heights of playing for their country.

“I doubt we will ever see the like of his talent again."

While tributes poured in from across the world, closer to home, fellow footballers and those associated with the game expressed their sadness at the news.

Former Northern Ireland manager Sammy McIlroy, who also played with Best for both Manchester United and his country, said: "I was lucky to play with George for Manchester United and Northern Ireland and it was an honour.

"He had it all. He could shoot, head, tackle, beat defenders for fun and score amazing goals. I'll also always remember him as a fantastic lad.

"You would not find too many people who met George who would have a bad word to say about him."

Northern Ireland player Gerry Armstrong said he was simply "filled with happy memories about the great man".

"George was a unique footballer in that he was capable of doing absolutely everything," Armstrong said.

"He had the most incredible balance on a football field and could do things that others would never even think about attempting.

"There will never be another George Best that's for sure."

Northern Ireland record goalscorer David Healy described Best as a footballing "icon".

"I got to meet him a few years ago," the Leeds United striker said. "It was a nice moment because its not everyday you get to meet one of your footballing icons.

"I got a nice picture taken with him and one of my Northern Ireland shirts signed by him. It's something I'll always treasure and something I'll always remember George by."

Irish Football Association president Jim Boyce said it was a sad time for everyone involved in Northern Ireland football.

"Wherever I have been in the world in recent years people have always asked me about George," Boyce said.

"At this sad time on behalf of the IFA and football fans in Northern Ireland I want to express my support to his father Dickie and the rest of his family."

(MB/SP)