Paul John Gascoigne is one of the greatest legends of British football. Considered as one of the best midfielders of the 90s, the player went through teams such as Newcastle, Tottenham or Rangers. He was also international with the English team on 57 occasions.
However, Gascoigne was also known for its character and behavior outside the game. On numerous occasions, it was news for actions outside the field. In addition, he had problems with alcohol and drugs during his career as a footballer.
Paul Gascoigne
Drug and alcohol problems
These problems were exacerbated once the boots hung. During the following years he entered a spiral from which he could not leave. In 2008 he entered a rehabilitation center against his will. Since then, he is working with a therapist his life habits, but has not managed to overcome his addictions.
In an interview that Gascoigne granted to ‘High Performance’, the player talked about the problems he still has today with alcohol and drugs: “I used to be a happy drunk. I am no longer. I am a sad drunk. I don’t go out to drink, I drink inside. “
Paul Gascoigne
The British explained what his routine is and the reasons he has to drink: “I try not to depress me because the world is already quite depressed. And when I’m really depressed, it’s when I drink to cheer up. If I want it to be a bad day, all I have to do is go to the pub. If I want it to be a good day, I take out my cane and go fishing … it’s not the drink, it’s after. After looking at my phone and seeing 30 messages or lost calls, I know I’m in trouble. “
To avoid drinking, Gascoigne revealed that he changed alcohol to 15 coffees a day: “It’s really easy, I just try to stay away from dangerous places. If I drink a drink, I take it because I want, it is not for any particular reason. No. I blamed anyone, it used to blame many people when I drank. “
However, despite the numerous difficulties and relapses he has gone through, the former soccer player does not throw the towel: “I have never given myself. I think the moment when I surrender will be when I am in a wooden box. Apart from that, I will continue struggling”.