British · Gateshead · Born 27 May 1967English footballer known for his creativity and flair, memorable for emotional World Cup performances and his turbulent career both on and off the pitch
Paul John Gascoigne was born in Gateshead in 1967 and is widely regarded as the most naturally gifted English footballer since George Best. His performances at Italia 90 — particularly his goal against Scotland and his tears when booked in the semi-final against Germany — made him England's most famous player. He joined Lazio from Tottenham in 1992 and Rangers from Lazio in 1995, winning two Scottish league titles. He earned 57 England caps, scoring 10 goals. His Rangers career produced 19 league goals in 77 appearances and he was named Scottish FWA Footballer of the Year in 1996. His domestic career also included spells at Newcastle, Tottenham, Middlesbrough, Everton, Burnley, Gansu Tianma and Algarve United. Persistent injury — particularly the knee injury sustained in the 1991 FA Cup final — and well-documented personal struggles with alcohol and mental health meant his peak was shorter than it might have been. Despite this, at his best he was technically a player of world class — dribbling, passing, shooting and reading the game at the highest level.
Tears after semi-final booking at 1990 World Cup
His tears at the 1990 World Cup — caused by a yellow card, not a result — are considered the most iconic emotional image in English sporting history.
Did You Know?How They Played
Creative attacking midfielder with exceptional dribbling, passing ability and flair
Lasting Impact
One of England's most naturally gifted players whose career was overshadowed by personal struggles
Career Honours
- FA Cup 1991
- Serie A (Lazio)
- Scottish Premier League 2x (Rangers)
- 57 England caps
- Serie A 1999-2000
- Scottish Premier League 1996
- Scottish Premier League 1997
| Club | Period | Apps | Goals | Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lazio | 1992–1995 | 47 | 6 | — |
| Rangers | 1995–1998 | 103 | 30 | — |
| Middlesbrough | 2002–2004 | 18 | 4 | — |
| Everton | 2000–2002 | 32 | 1 | — |
| Newcastle United | 1985–1988 | 92 | 21 | #10 |
| Tottenham Hotspur | 1988–1992 | 112 | 33 | — |
| Burnley | 2002–2002 | 4 | 0 | — |
| Gansu Tianma | 2003–2003 | 4 | 1 | — |
| Boston United | 2004–2004 | 5 | 0 | — |
 Great Britain | — | 57 | 10 | — |
British Athletes