Manchester United legend George Best is coming to the end of the long road of his ill health, his doctor Professor Roger Williams said today.
Prof Williams said Best could die at any time, saying: "He's still alive, he's still having standard medical care and treatment but I have to tell that his hours are numbered now."
The former Northern Ireland star had a controversial liver transplant in 2002 after his existing liver failed following years of alcohol abuse.
Best, 59, who ignored pleas to stay off the booze after the operation, was admitted to hospital on October 1 suffering from a flu-like infection.
His health deteriorated rapidly when he developed a kidney infection but he then rallied and his condition was thought to be improving until the early hours of Friday when he suffered a severe setback.
He developed a lung infection and was put back on a ventilator in intensive care but remained alert.
However, his condition worsened again on Tuesday night.
Best's father Dickie, 87, and other members of his family have been at his bedside.
Best's son Calum, 24, arrived at the hospital yesterday but declined to speak to waiting reporters.
