[jaysay]

Originally Posted by Barrie Yates

I don't think you can compare players from different eras. Different ball, boots(now shoes), better playing surfaces, different training methods, so much has changed. I consider myself fortunate to have seen so many great players from Mathews (first in 1947(?) at Ewood for Stoke), Finney, Lofthouse, Shackleton. through Puskas, Gento, Pele, Charlton, Best, Law, and so on. Messi must rate very high but one must also give credit to the players that are alongside him at Barca. He doesn't shine as well for Argentina.
We each have opinions as to who is/was the best but really your choice is your favourite player - my own choice is split between two - naturally both United - Edwards & Coleman, unfortunately I only got to see them a few times

I have to agree there Barrie, I think both would have gone on to be greats of the game, but they were sadly cut down before they cut make a real impact on the game, especially Edwards