15 Dec 79 When George Best laughed in my face - Gerd Muller

After scoring 365 goals In the Bundesliga, Der Bomber packed his bags and left for the Fort Lauderdale Strikers. Even though he missed the opening games of the North Amerman Soccer league, Miller still finished third highest scorer, with 19 goals, an average of a goal-a-game. His comments to the German Press about life in Florida are interesting...

How did your first season in the U.S.A. go?
A total success. I played five games less than the others, but I very nearly topped the goal-chart. I was voted the Strikers' Most Valuable Player and the attendances rose to 218,000 from 143,000 the previous season.

Do they really play as badly in America as many people imagine?
The standard of football in Europe is definitely much higher, but you must remember the rules are slightly different in the States and away games often mean long journeys and time-differences. After a long flight, we may have to play in extreme temperatures (warm or cold). Playing at 2 o'clock in sweltering heat isn't easy.

Are you still afraid of flying?
Yes, that hasn't changed I still break into a sweat before each flight.

What are the fans like? Apparently, they don't have much knowledge of the game
The supporters are marvellous. A crowd of 10,000 in Fort Lauderdale makes more noise than 30,000 in Germany. I think the Strikers' fans are the most enthusiastic in the whole League. I like the way they arrive two hours before kick-off for a family picnic.

Was George Best actually sacked by the club?
Yes, they threw him out.

As a 'new American', what du you think of the typical American way of life... Coca Cola, hamburgers and all that?
For a start I don't like Coke or hamburgers! My wife does the cooking, just as she did in Munich. There are no problems.

Do you feel like an old age pensioner playing in a U.S Old Age Pensioner's League?
Rubbish! You have to earn your money and I'm certainly not paid just because my name's Gerd Muller.

Did you want to prove something after your row with Bayern Munich coach Pal Csernai?
Yes. I've proved all I need to, to Csernai and myself. I know I could play in the Bundesliga at any time. I've never felt fitter.

What do you think of the new Bayern team?
I'd say they are title favourites and the main threat will come from Kevin Keegan's Hamburger SV. I still think Bayern will win the League, though. Bayern have Paul Breitner and Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, two excellent players. The midfield is strong and the defence solid, while the overall squad is top-class.