There are many fond memories in the game for footballing legend Paul Gascoigne, who, over the years since he retired has sadly had his fair share of problems with alcoholism.
However, he was one of England’s most gifted footballer’s of his generation, as well as being the life and soul of every club he played for.
Famous for his pranks, there is one particular that stands out. Unbeknown to many, Gascoigne actually had a spell at Everton and during this time, so did a particular Abel Xavier, who controversially moved to fierce rivals Liverpool.
Gazza’s Interview Gag
During a television interview with Xavier, “Gazza”, not once, but twice poked his head around shouting in feigned derision, “Please don’t go Abel! I want your babies Abel”; effectively demonstrating his infectious personality and genuine love for this teammates.
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It was a gift not many of his generation had and, understandably it became a lovable trait. On the field, he could do the talking, pulling off some special moments, while off the field, he loved to make people feel equally special and also amused.
While Xavier of course, moved to Liverpool, where he became part of an iconic defence that included Sami Hypia and Stephan Henchoz, he is still fondly remembered for his contributions for the Toffees.
Gascoigne A Huge Hit On And Off The Field
English football fans of a certain age, will, of course, always remember the Geordie for his exploits in a Three Lions shirt.
In particular, for his iconic goal in the Euro ‘96 group game against fierce rivals Scotland. He showed superb improvisation to chip it over an on-rushing defender before volleying into the net after which David Seaman had just saved a penalty.
Off the field, his pranks are stuff of legend, but which aren’t widely known. One included, when he was at Tottenham, he turned up to the training ground with an ostrich he borrowed from a friend who owned a zoo.
While his teammates laughed, it drove the coaches crazy as they chased the bird around trying to round it up.
Another saw him prank the physio, asking him to drive his car up to Newcastle and while the players boarded the team coach, he called the police reporting it stolen. Lo and behold, the coach passed the physio on the A1 with the police attempting to detain him with the players banging on the window all laughing. Perhaps that one, crossed the line.
In another instance, Gazza also pranked new signings David Ginola, famous for his flowing locks, byThere are many fond memories in the game for footballing legend Paul Gascoigne, who, over the years since he retired has sadly had his fair share of problems with alcoholism.
However, he was one of England’s most gifted footballer’s of his generation, as well as being the life and soul of every club he played for.
Famous for his pranks, there is one particular that stands out. Unbeknown to many, Gascoigne actually had a spell at Everton and during this time, so did a particular Abel Xavier, who controversially moved to fierce rivals Liverpool.
