Few people got the chance to know George Best like Clyde Best.

The Manchester United superstar died yesterday at the Cromwell Hospital in London after a long battle against alcoholism.

But for his Bermudian namesake, there will always be fond memories.

On his debut for West Ham at Old Trafford in 1969, Clyde Best stood in awe as the United genius notched a superb hat-trick.

What followed would be a sporting rivalry on the pitch and lasting friendship off it, behind the glamour and glitz of English football.

?George had an absolute blinder that day at Old Trafford,? recalled Clyde yesterday. ?He scored a hat-trick and was on song. It was just a treat to watch him bob and weave through people at will.

?We used to have this contest between us. He would always try to do his thing at Old Trafford while I would always make sure to repay the compliment at Upton Park.

?We always sat down and talked whenever we had the chance and enjoyed some really good times together. He was definitely a world class player who could play in any team in the world.?

During a short but outstanding playing career Best constantly humiliated defenders, scoring 180 goals in 465 appearances for the Red Devils with whom he won the coveted European Cup in 1968 and was voted European Player of the Year.

He also made 37 international appearances for Northern Ireland, and enjoyed a playing stint in the former North American Soccer League, scoring 54 goals in 139 games for the Los Angeles Aztecs, Fort Lauderdale Strikers and San Jose Earthquakes.

?George started his career a few years before I did and he more or less had already made a name for himself while I still had mine to make,? recalled Clyde.

?It was a pleasure to be able to play in his company and be in the same park as him because not many get the opportunity to play with the best three players in the world ? Pele, Johan Cruyff and George. And I?ve had the pleasure of playing with all of them and to be honest I think George was just as good as the other two ? perhaps even better.

?This is a very sad day and my deepest sympathy and condolences go out to his family. He was a lovely fellow and an exceptional football player, probably one of the best during his time, and he?s going to be sadly missed.?

Devonshire Cougars coach Andrew Bascome also paid tribute to the late player yesterday.

?He was a great player and I admired the way he played,? he said. ?His ball skills and first touch were unbelievable. He was never afraid of a challenge and also seemed to feed off the big atmosphere.?

Bascome?s former North Village team-mate Robert Calderon added: ?In my neighbourhood there were only a few players kids wanted to emulate, and Best was high on the list.

?He always looked cool, the women loved him and defenders feared him. Plus he wore a red shirt every Saturday. How could you not adore the guy? The world will mourn his passing.?