PFA ready to help troubled Gazza

Gordon Taylor has emphasised that the Professional Footballers’ Association are ready to help Paul Gascoigne if called upon.

The former England midfielder, 38, was arrested for an alleged assault on a photographer in Liverpool just hours after being sacked as manager of non-league Kettering.

PFA chief executive Taylor said: “It’s a pity the way things worked out at Kettering. It may be back to square one.

“If a former player has problems he can come to us. But it is down to the person themselves.

“You can only really provide help when it is asked for.

“I have a high regard for Paul. He is a loveable character.

“He has been under a very big spotlight throughout his career and of course he has had well documented problems off the field.

“We have provided a support system in the past for him to come to when he has needed it.”

Taylor believes that Kettering chairman Imraan Ladak could have handled the situation better.

Ladak publicly accused Gascoigne of having a drink problem and axed him after 39 days in charge. Assistant manager Paul Davis was also dismissed.

Taylor said: “The chairman was looking to justify what had happened in a war of words.

“It was uncalled for given that both Pauls have not received a penny yet for their efforts for Kettering.”