THE agent of former Newcastle United player Paul Gascoigne has spoken out about his fears for the footballer’s health following reports he has started drinking again.

The one-time England, Newcastle and Spurs star, has spoken of his lengthy battle with drink and drugs and it is believed he has started drinking again.

His agent Terry Baker said: “He won’t thank me for saying but he needs to immediately get help. Whatever’s happened to him in the five or six weeks since I saw him before Christmas, he is not as well as he has been.

“He’s been absolutely fine, he really has, and now he isn’t. But I think he knows that. His life is always in danger because he is an alcoholic. Maybe no one can save him – I don’t know. I really don’t know.”

The 45-year-old appeared to be unwell and trembling at a charity appearance in Northampton on Thursday.

Gascoigne, who has spoken about alcoholism problems in the past and was sectioned five years ago under the Mental Health Act, was said to be shaking and slurred his words on stage at the charity event.

Following news of a possible relapse, messages of support have flooded in for the footballer.

Professional Footballers’ Association chief executive Gordon Taylor spoke to the former player yesterday, and said: “I offered all our help that he needs.

“It is just sometimes, it is down to the individual – it is down to him, and he just knows we are here for him whenever he needs us. We are not going to give up on him.

“He still feels he is capable of getting back on track and it is a relapse he has had.

“I can only say, whatever help he needs, he must come on board and we will help to provide it. I think he does need specialist care and a very strong 24-hour support system, but again, it needs him to be part of that.”

Former England and Tottenham team-mate Gary Lineker admitted on Twitter yesterday that he is struggling to see a positive outcome for Gascoigne.

Lineker, who played with Gascoigne at the 1990 World Cup, wrote on Twitter: “I can only hope he finds peace somehow, but fear those hopes may be forlorn.”