Gazza - End Of The Road?

Paul Gascoigne has backed Glenn Roeder to make a success of his return to management. And, amazingly having already made an arse of himself at two clubs already since retiring as a player, the former Newcastle midfielder says he has the determination to follow the 50-year-old back into football.

Gascoigne: 'I think it's great for Glenn. We are close friends, I'm godfather to his kids and I know this is a great opportunity for him. Glenn did really well when he first took over (as caretaker manager), he has done a good job.

'He has got a two-year contract at St James's Park now and I hope he does really well. Glenn knows the game inside out, and, if he buys the right players, Newcastle will definitely do well next season.'

But alcoholism comntinues to be his demon, and no matter if he says he has beaten the bottle or not, he always looks as though he's spent 24 hours down the Bigg Market on the raz.

He was sacked after only 39 days in charge of Kettering Town. But having spent time in an addiction clinic in the United States, the former England favourite is determined to work in the game again. He was on Tyneside this week pushing his book.

'I want to do it properly this time. I want to get the right credentials, work for the badges, and if anything comes up I will concentrate on making sure I do it right.

'I suppose I have been to hell but now I'm on my way back. I hope that I am a stronger person these days. I have moved on, I'm not the old Gazza that people used to know. I'm in good spirits, I'm happy at the minute and I have a smile on my face. I just hope that I can continue to improve.'

Click here to join in the debate on the club forum.