Soccer superstar George Best dies

George Best in this March, 2004 photograph. Picture / Reuters

Soccer genius George Best died overnight (around 1.30am NZT) , at the age of 59.

He has been in hospital for the last two months suffering infections and internal bleeding. He had serious problems with his liver and kidneys, put down to his notorious excesses with alcohol. He underwent a liver transplant in 2002.

Best's career career peaked in 1968, when he was crowned European Footballer of the Year.

His son Calum tearfully broke the news to supporters waiting outside his father's London hospital. "I've lost my Dad", he told them, "But we have all lost a wonderful man".

He paid tribute to the medical team at the hospital whom he said had done everything they could to save his father.

A minute's silence will be observed at English league matches this weekend as a mark of respect. Former Manchester United colleague Bobby Charlton says the famous club's glorious history was due to players like Best.

Best is remembered for once saying "I spent a lot of money on booze, birds and fast cars. The rest I just squandered".

Best played his last competitive soccer match in 1984, playing for a prison side after he was sent to jail after being found guilty of drink-driving.

- NEWSTALK ZB