Sympathy for Gazza

IT is not an exaggeration to say that Paul Gascoigne – one of the most gifted footballers the North-East has produced – is fighting for his life.

It has been increasingly clear for a long time that “Gazza” is in a desperate state, but newly- published pictures of him, looking more gaunt than ever, have shocked people all over the world.

In a television documentary broadcast a year ago, the former England and Newcastle United star was realistic that his colourful life faces a premature end unless he can overcome the alcoholism that has turned him into an almost unrecognisable wreck.

Tragically, he is right on that score. He was, however, incorrect when he added: “I hope I don’t die of it, because I won’t get any sympathy.”

The truth is that there is huge sympathy for Paul Gascoigne – nowhere more so than here in the North-East.

That is clear from the caring messages that have flooded in and which have tonight led to his daughter, Bianca, issuing a “thank you” statement.

Of course, there will always be those who take the view that he has thrown his privileged life away on booze and drugs, and that he doesn’t deserve any support. But they are in the minority.

Most decent people understand that alcoholism is a serious illness - an illness that is far from easy to conquer and one that should never be trivialised.

It is hard not to fear the worst for Gazza. He is a man on the brink and, very sadly, there can be little optimism that his latest spell in hospital will fix his problems.

But there is more understanding, sympathy and support around the world than he probably appreciates.

Our thoughts are with him.