George Best's funeral will take place in Belfast on Saturday

However Hanson stressed that it would take time for a decision to be reached.

There are plans for a 42,500-seater stadium to be built on the site of the former Maze prison which would stage football, rugby and gaelic fixtures.

"It is clear that George's life has meant a lot to a lot of people in Northern Ireland," said Hanson.

"The people of Northern Ireland and people throughout the United Kingdom want to celebrate George's life in a positive way.

"He has been one of the greatest footballers that ever lived. He has brought much glory, pleasure and joy to people throughout the world."

There is a growing clamour for Best, who died on Friday, aged 59, to be honoured permanently in his home city of Belfast.