Totally agree. I saw Best and Charlton in the flesh and they were players who would have been absolute giants now, particularly Best.The thing is the likes of Best and Bobby Charlton were fantastic athletes they would have flourished now.
I saw these players in the flesh and although for me Messi is the best i've ever seen I think it's quite frightening to think what Best in particular could have done if born into the modern age.
There's a little bit of ignorance being shown by some on here regarding latter day players particularly some of the comments regarding defenders.
They're being portayed as simpletons who just dove in and were pulling a horse and cart.
I actually think individually defenders were genarally better then,today defending is much more the whole team thing,there's quite a few individual deficencies which can be covered up in that framework.
Attackers in the modern era are greatly favoured by referees, able to go over on a whim to elect a foul. Players are encouraged to dive and feign injury, knowing they will be given due attention.
The point about defending is a sound one. Coaches find it easier now with all the tools at their disposal to organise defences to nullify players. There is a greater emphasis on all players doing their share of defending.
Messi in the 60s would have been swamped. He's benefited massively by being nursed by Barca(the hormone treatment one aspect) and given a solid stage with the time and support to dominate it.
Grow Best in Barca - Mega superstar
Grow Messi in Manchester - Another kid who didn't make it