George Best Critically Ill

The news for George Best and his family is not looking good as doctors warn 'We must be prepared for the worst.'

Doctor Akeel Alisa of Cromwell Hospital told reporters: 'George has had a very bad night. He's very, very ill. I think we must all prepare ourselves for the worst.' Adding George is a friend not just a patient. It's been a very emotional day.'

The player's agent, Phil Hughes, added: 'The doctors said he had a really bad night. We'll know more later today.'

The former Manchester United and 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 1 October suffering from a flu-like infection.

The 59 year old has been back in hospital since the beginning of October and returned to intensive care on Friday following set backs.

Professor Roger Williams said 'George is coming to the end of his ill health, I'd be very surprised if he survives the next 24 hours.'