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Belfast Live
Belfast Live
Sport
Staff reporter

Locals united in their reaction to stunning new George Best mural in Belfast

He may already have an airport named after him and a statue erected in his honour at Windsor Park, but a new tribute to George Best has been unveiled in east Belfast.

The stunning new mural by artist Dee Craig at Best's native Cregagh Estate portrays the ex-Northern Ireland and Manchester United star at the height of his fame on international duty in 1969.

Craig shared the image online with the caption: "George Best back at home, Cregagh Estate, Belfast."

The football icon died in 2005 aged 59 after a high-profile battle with alcoholism. Almost 100,000 people lined the streets of his native city for his funeral, which was held at Stormont.

Read more: Paul Gascoigne visits George Best mural and Rangers supporters' club during Belfast trip

The Belfast hero was named European Footballer of the Year in 1968 after leading Manchester United to the European Cup for the first time and came sixth in a FIFA Player of the Century vote.

Best was immortalised with a bronze statue in the shadow of Windsor Park just two years ago and was previously depicted on a wall in east Belfast but the artwork in the Sydenham area was replaced by an image of a UVF gunman.

Now this fantastic new painting can be seen again close to his homeplace and the mural looks set to be a popular destination for football fans from far and wide.

"Spent many days on the Cregagh Estate. Class. Love George Best," said Jonny Blair on Facebook after an image of the mural was shared by the Our Wee Country fans page.

Brinley McPolin added: "Superb artwork. Far better than the statue."

"That is absolutely fantastic, and thoroughly deserved what a footballer," said Ian Evans.

Norman McGladdery posted: "Artwork that befits the player simply the best."

Willy Grattan wrote on Twitter: "Respect to the artist who did this George Best mural. Fantastic job!"

"I'm sure this will attract a few visitors, smashing job," said Shankill GAWA.

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