Best leaves a Magistrate’s Court in London on Monday after facing a charge of drunk-driving. (Reuters)

London: Former Northern Ireland and Manchester United star George Best was banned from driving for 20 months and fined £1,500 Monday after pleading guilty to drunk driving.

Best, 57, who has a long history of alcohol abuse, was arrested early last Friday in southwest London. Breathalyzer tests showed he was nearly two-and-a-half times over the legal alcohol limit.

Wimbledon magistrate Sally Marley described Best’s conduct as “irresponsible and unacceptable”. Best agreed to enroll in a safe-driving course, which could get his 20-month ban reduced.

Best’s lawyers said the former player was upset after having a big argument with his son, Callum, at a restaurant. (AP)