NEW WIZARD OF OZ?

Stallions` coach Eddie Krncevic believes that bringing the 32-year-old former England international to Australia would be a great boost for soccer in the country and has no worries about the player`s history of on and off-field indiscipline.

"I don`t think he`d be a problem here, it`d be something very special for the Australian public and it would get the crowds through," Krncevic said.

"If he could find a place on the harbour with a little boat where he could fish, he`d be very content."

Securing a financial package for the former Tottenham and Lazio star wouldn`t be a problem for the Stallions who are the richest club in Australian soccer.

Gascoigne, who is currently sidelined after breaking his forearm after a challenge with George Boateng eight days ago, is expected to leave England in the summer with America and Malaysia touted as possible destinations.

Middlesbrough manager Brian Robson, however, dismissed the speculation, saying: "There has been no contact from Marconi Stallions or any Australian club.

"Gascoigne has been to America for rest, after breaking his left forearm against Aston Villa, but he will start to build up his fitness again later this week.

"Paul is still an important member of our squad. He should be fully fit again within a few weeks and I expect him to come back into the squad before the end of the season."

Gascoigne`s agent, Mel Stein, also rubbished suggestions that Gazza could be set to journey Down Under.

Ciaran Baynes & Jonny Wootton