England legend Paul Gascoigne holds back tears as he discusses addiction

England legend Paul Gascoigne welled up with emotion as he revealed that people struggling with addiction have told him his memoir had “saved their lives”.

The former Midfielder, whose fame hit dizzying heights after his appearance at the Italia ’90 World Cup, told Good Morning Britain that after years alcoholism, he is doing well and is the “best he’s felt in years”.

Affectionately known as Gazza, Gascoigne is open about his addiction in his latest book, “Eight”, which unlike his previous autobiographies, he says is “not about football”.

He teared up as he told GMB: “A lot of people have come up and said they’ve read it and how it’s saved their life.

“If that book can save one person’s life, then I’ve done my job, I think I should read it myself you know.”

Not only does he detail his struggles with drinking, Gascoigne also writes about a period of his life where he was addicted to Red Bull, drinking 30 cans of the energy drink per day at one point.

He said ended up flying to Arizona to attend rehab for his Red Bull addiction, adding: “The withdrawal was horrific.”

Gascoigne said he simply tries to take things one day at a time, adding: “I don’t try and think weeks ahead because I don’t know about tomorrow. All I know is I’m safe today.

“It used to be a battle every time I woke up. A big battle. But now it’s easy. I get up, I have a coffee, I work out what I’m going to do that day and I plan the day ahead.”

Gascoigne reflected on his time at the 1990s World Cup as “one of the best times I’ve ever had in my life”, adding: “I loved it.”

Asked what he thought of England’s chances at the 2026 World Cup, which kicks off this month, Gazza said: “I think the first one is going to be a tough one, because Croatia are a good team.

“We must get at least a draw and it gives them a chance in the second game. You can’t afford to carry anyone. Everyone’s got to be on the ball and the team spirit as well is important.”

In a message to the players, he said: “Enjoy it because you never know, it could be your last World Cup. The most important thing is team spirit, because that goes a long way.”