Ex-Rangers ace says he respects women and denies allegations

ENGLAND football star Paul Gascoigne has been charged with sexually assaulting a woman on a train.

The former Rangers and England midfielder, 51, was arrested at Durham station on August 20.

He has strongly denied any wrongdoing and said the allegations have reduced him to tears.

Gascoigne added: “I’m just sad about it as I respect all women. I’ve a mam, two sisters, two nieces, a daughter.”

It is alleged he sexually assaulted the woman on board a train from York to Durham on August 20.

British Transport Police said: “Paul Gascoigne was charged via postal requisition with one count of sexual assault by touching.”

After the charge became public yesterday, the star sent a flurry of messages, included a tweet saying: “I’m crying my eyes out.

“I guarantee yous I do not abuse or BY JEREMY ARMSTRONG use women. Big hugs from Gazza oh in fact I better not say that.”

British Transport Police officers have denied his claims that they asked for a selfie when they spoke to him about the allegations.

Gascoigne, 51, who lives in Leicester, said: “Deep inside I’m hurting”, adding he had done “f*** all wrong”.

He is due to appear at Newton Aycliffe magistrates court, Co Durham, on December 11.

Gascoigne’s agent, Shane Whitfield, said the Gateshead-born star intended to deny the allegations in court.

Whitfield added: “People are always trying to accuse him of wrongdoing and put him down. It’s unfair.”

Gascoigne’s team said he intends to honour his next public engagement at speaking event An Evening with Gazza.

The Ibrox legend, who starred for Rangers from 1995-98, has struggled for years with addiction to drink and drugs.