Gascoigne seeks help in America

Ex-England footballer Paul Gascoigne has been admitted to a treatment centre in the United States in an attempt to stay off alcohol.

The former Tottenham Hotspur, Lazio and Newcastle United star, 45, has "willingly" been admitted to an unnamed centre, his management company said on Monday night.

The move came after fears for the Italia 90 and Euro 96 legend when he appeared unwell and shaking during a charity appearance in Northampton last week, when he broke down sobbing on stage in front of a room full of fans.

In a statement, GamePlan Solutions said Gazza had been touched by the help and support shown by fans and figures within football over the past few days.

The statement read: "Alcoholic Paul Gascoigne has been experiencing a tough time of late.

"He has been asking for help and has willingly been admitted to a treatment centre in America.

"He has complex issues that are currently being dealt with by professionals.

"Paul has been extremely touched and overwhelmed by the generous offers of help and support over the past few days.

"He is motivated to fully understand and control his addiction problem under guidance."