'I have not changed, I cannot change, I would not know how to change'

GAZZA'S SURPRISE CONFESSION

- By JEREMY ARMSTRONG

FORMER England footballer Paul Gascoigne has stated that he will “never stop drinking,” and would rather “die as Gazza” than completely abstain from alcohol.

In an exclusive interview with The Mirror, the 58-year-old Gateshead-born star confessed that despite numerous stints in rehab, he continues to relapse.

He revealed that his 82-year-old mother is the only person who still refers to him as Paul rather than Gazza. Reflecting on the distress his addiction has caused his family, he said: “I have not changed, I cannot change, I would not know how to change.”

Gascoigne continued: “I will probably die as Gazza. But I have nothing to hide. The whole country knows what I have done.”