5 great players who never played at the World Cup

#2 George Best (Northern Ireland)

Manchester United's stylish forward also couldn't participate in the World Cup.

Nationality: Northern Ireland

Countries represented at the international level: Northern Ireland

International Caps: 37 (1964-1977)

International Goals: 9

International trophies won (with Northern Ireland):

A part of the Manchester United's Holy Trinity, George Best was one of the biggest legends in the Matt Busby years of Manchester United. His playing style combined speed, skills, balance, two-footedness along with the ability to score goals and beat defenders. No wonder, he helped United to two First Division trophies (1964–65, 1966–67) and the European Cup in 1968. Best was subsequently named the European Footballer of the Year and FWA Footballer of the Year.

While the Irish FA described him as the "greatest player to ever pull on the green shirt of Northern Ireland", Best could never participate in the biggest footballing event in the world. In his prime, Northern Ireland failed to qualify for 1966, 1970 and 1974 World Cup.

When Northern Ireland finally qualified for the World Cup in 1982, Best was duly considered by manager Billy Bingham. However at the age of 36, with his football skills waning due to age and alcoholism (adding to the fact that it had been over five years since he last wore the famous green jersey), Best was not selected for the Northern Ireland squad.