Troubled Gazza claims he thought about suicide

PAUL GASCOIGNE, England’s troubled former midfield star, yesterday spoke of his long, difficult battle against alcoholism and said he even considered suicide.

Gascoigne, 36, who shot to international fame in the 1990 World Cup when he helped England to the semi-finals before bowing out in tears following the penalty shootout defeat to West Germany, said he had not had a drink for a year.

But the former Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur, Lazio and Rangers player admitted in an emotional interview that it continued to be a tough struggle.

"There's been suicide thoughts, I don't mind admitting that," he said. "It's been as low as that for a few days and I don't want any sympathy you've asked a question and I've given an honest answer.

"I honestly thought I couldn't live without a drink."

His alcoholism has been blamed for causing the break-up of his marriage and his behaviour has sparked a string of lurid headlines since he was left out of England's 1998 World Cup squad.