Gazza delight with Boston job
Paul Gascoigne is delighted with his player-coach position at Boston United.
Paul Gascoigne was delighted to get his first full match for Boston United under his belt after overcoming a perforated ulcer.The former England star has been on the road to full match fitness following the health setback, as he starts to forge his career as a player-coach with the League Two outfit.
The veteran playmaker helped The Pilgrims earn a 2-1 victory over Cambridge United on Saturday and, following the win, gave praise to manager Steve Evans for allowing him the chance to establish a new career in football.
"I'm really enjoying the coaching and playing side," Gascoigne said. "Credit to the gaffer, he lets me have my say before a game, at half time and at the end of the match.
"Personally, I was really fit until I got the perforated ulcer [that kept him sidelined for the start of the season] and I haven't trained for a month, but I'm feeling good again now.
"I've still got my tricks, my skills and my passing though, and that saves me a lot of energy in a game."
His well-publicised problems with alcohol and excess have taken their toll on Gascoigne over the years, but the former Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur, Lazio and Rangers man insists his new vice is coaching Boston's fledging youngsters.
"I don't have drink in my life anymore, so I look for other buzzes," he added.
"Helping the kids out is the way I can do that and this is something that gives me a lot of pleasure.
"I'm not going to have a drink ever again in my life because I haven't got a drink left inside of me.
"I was out of it two years ago, but now I like to think I'm a role model and I'm proud of myself for getting it together again.
"I'm just glad to be back doing what I love."
