George where did it all go wrong?

Duncan Hamilton's excellent biography of George Best points to some pivotal moments in his life and career. His greatest playing moment and the height of his sporting life was Manchester United's winning of the European Cup on May 29th 1968. Best was only truly happy when he was playing, scoring and receiving the adulation of his adoring fans. Nothing else mattered, the aftermath celebrations, the rewards, the copious amounts of alcohol, and the constant flow of beautiful women who entered his life briefly and ultimately departed soon after. It is said that Best was recognized as the first celebrity footballer, his life becoming public property and began quickly spiraling out of control. If only Best had been offered psychiatric counseling, if only Matt Busby had understood more fully his prodigal son, and rather than gently lecture him punished him in a more fitting and effective manner. George Best was a flawed genius, an outstanding sportsman, and it is a great pity that his footballing skills were always overshadowed by this darker side. However ultimately we all control our own destiny and must stand responsible for decisions made and actions taken throughout our life.