Clyde Best yesterday paid the ultimate tribute to former West Ham and England boss Ron Greenwood ? ?without him I wouldn?t have had a career?.

Greenwood, who managed the Hammers from 1961 to 1974, died after a long illness and the Bermudian legend was quick to sing the praises of the influential manager who also took charge of his national side from 1977 to 1982.

?I have heard the news and it hurts a lot,? said Best, who was recommended for his MBE by Greenwood.

?He was a great man and my sympathies go out to his wife and family. I spoke to him about eight or so months ago when I had heard he had taken a turn for the worse and I wished him all the best.?

Greenwood, who also managed England World Cup stars Bobby Moore, Martin Peters and Geoff Hurst at West Ham, played a vital part in Best?s career in England, something the Bermudian will never forget.

?He was a man who was ahead of his time,? said Best, clearly saddened by the death of his mentor.

?He took a chance on a little black lad from Bermuda and without him I wouldn?t have had a career. He gave me a chance at a time when many a manager wouldn?t and I will never forget that.?

Best said he was waiting to hear details of when the funeral might take place but indicated that he would attend if he could.

?He has only just passed so it is too early to say but once the details are out, and if it?s an open funeral, then I would very seriously consider making the trip over there,? added Best.

Best made his name at West Ham under Greenwood, paving the way for coloured players in England?s top league, before going on to play in Holland and the US. He was awarded an MBE in the New Year?s Honours List six weeks ago.