Gazza thanks Shearer for support

Ex-England football star Paul Gascoigne described today how he had been supported in his battle with depression by his former England team-mate Alan Shearer.

The troubled 38-year-old midfielder has found life hard since he had to give up the game, and has had a well-publicised battle with drink and drugs.

After playing around the world, including stints in Italy and China, Gazza has settled back in his native Dunston, Gateshead, Tyne and Wear, close to Newcastle United, where his career began.

In an interview with the Evening Chronicle newspaper to publicise a new edition of Gazza: My Story, Gascoigne thanked his fellow Newcastle legend for helping him in difficult times.

He told the newspaper: “I had a lot of nice messages from Alan Shearer.

“I would text him and he would text me back.”

He said his hometown club has also helped him rekindle his love of football.

“Newcastle United have been great with me.

“They have been very supportive and got me going to football matches again, which was what I needed.”

Gazza backed the newspaper’s War on Drugs campaign, warning users they risked death if they dabbled.

He also said he was ready to find romance again, after splitting from wife Sheryl.

“I’ve got a lot of love to give,” he said.

“I just need to make sure I find someone who loves me for me and not for my money or fame.”