The Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern TD, expressed his sadness at the passing of George Best.
Seaking from Hungary he said, “I am saddened to learn of the death of George Best. George was one of my great sporting heroes.
“Not only is he one of the finest footballers this island has ever produced but he is also one of the best players the world has ever seen.
“In the days ahead people will struggle with words to try to describe his talent. In this regard George should be remembered as the very best at what he did. He was quite simply a football genius.
“He made his debut for Manchester United in 1963 at 17 years of age, and under the stewardship of the legendary Matt Busby he helped the Old Trafford club to unprecedented success.
“As a teenager, I remember being enthralled by George's sensational performance in the 1968 European Cup final which propelled United to a famous victory. Throughout a long and colourful career, George gave great pleasure to millions of football supporters across the globe. He was a man of unmatched football skills and great personal charisma. He fought a long difficult battle with alcoholism and I am sorry to hear today that he has finally succumbed to illness.
"I wish to extend my sympathy to George's family, friends and legions of fans, he will be well remembered and sadly missed."
