Overview

Legendary both on and off the pitch, this is the definitive George Best autobiography, in paperback George Best needs little introduction. A legend in his own lifetime, he is undoubtedly the greatest footballer the UK has ever produced. Blessed with an extraordinary gift he brought a beauty and grace to the game never before seen. But Best was unable to cope with the success and fame his football genius brought. His fabled story is littered with tales of women and sex and, of course, alcohol. Much has been written about Best, but very little substantiated by the man himself. That is until George Best opened his heart and engaged us in one of the most exhilarating life stories for years, Blessed. In his own words George recounts the halcyon days at Manchester United, the big games and European Cup win of '68. And then there's the heartbreaking truth about the death of his mother and his struggles with alcohol that forced him to face up to a life without drink. Blessed reveals the man behind the up-for-a-laugh, boozy, womanizing stereotype that had dogged George Best for so long. Open and honest about his mistakes, George is also incredibly candid about his triumphs, his regrets, and, only three years before his death, what he had hoped for the future. 'Don't coach him, he's a genius' Sir Matt Busby 'Unquestionably the greatest' Sir Alex Ferguson

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9780091884703

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Reviews

Brilliantly raw * Sunday Times * His autobiography tells everything...this is a powerful, unexpectedly moving story * The Mirror * Fascinating-honest to the point of self-laceration-Best will always remain a breath-taking example of supreme talent and courage * Independent * Unquestionably the greatest -- Sir Alex Ferguson Where this book differs from the others - and there have been a few - is in Best's attempts to face his demons -- Michael Parkinson * Daily Telegraph *

Blessed he certainly was. George Best is arguably the most talented footballer the British Isles have ever produced. Superb with either foot, his magnificent balance allowed him to ride the most ferocious tackle and with his ability to imagine the unexpected he was the first sportsman to reach pop-star status. With his good looks and long black hair he was christened 'the fifth Beatle' and he enjoyed an off-the-field lifestyle to match. However, this was before the problems of superstar sportsmen were appreciated by coaches and managers. Best had lots of money and lots of spare time. He was surrounded by adoring fans who admired his every move. Eventually the fame and success became too much for him to control. And this brings us to the real heart of this illuminating autobiography. It's not so much a football story as that of a young man who had it all too soon, without anyone to guide him. His career at the top was shortened by an addiction to alcohol which led him through failed relationships, bankruptcy and prison. Here Best details the problems he faced with Manchester United, how the booze took over and how he now has to face up to the fact that one more drink could kill him. He describes his close relationships with several women who have devoted themselves to him, while admitting his inability to give himself fully to any of them. George Best was certainly blessed - but sadly he never seems to have realized the fact in time. (Kirkus UK)

'Fascinating-honest to the point of self-laceration-Best will always remain a breath-taking example of supreme talent and courage', Independent .'Brilliantly raw', Sunday Times .'His autobiography tells everything...this is a powerful, unexpectedly moving story', The Mirror

Author Information

Co-author Roy Collins has been a Sports columnist for over 16 years and is a personal friend of George Best. He was a chief sports writer on Today for ten years followed by the People Sport, and currently the Guardian and Sunday Telegraph.

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