GAZZA ON SEX ASSAULT CHARGE
Star denies attacking woman on a train
ENGLAND football star Paul Gascoigne has been charged with sexually assaulting a woman on a train.
Gascoigne, 51, who is due to appear in court next month, insisted he is innocent.
The former Newcastle Utd midfielder was held at Durham station in August. He said: “I respect all women.”
PAUL Gascoigne says he has been reduced to tears after being charged with sexual assault.
The former England footballer has strongly denied any wrongdoing.
He 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 a woman on board a train between York and Durham on August 20.
Guidelines for the offence give a maximum sentence of 26 weeks in jail.
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, his flurry of messages included a tweet saying: “I’m crying my eyes out.
“I... guarantee YOU’S I DO NOT ACCUSE ABUSE OR USE WOMEN...
“BIG HUGS FROM GAZZA OH IN FACT I BETTER NOT SAY THAT.”
Gascoigne, 51, who lives in Leicester, said “deep inside I’m hurting”. He added that he had done “f*** all wrong”.
The star is due to appear at Newton Aycliffe magistrates court, Co Durham, on December 11.
He was arrested at Durham train station after the alleged attack, and was released under investigation while inquiries continued. Gascoigne’s agent, Shane Whitfield, said the Gateshead-born star intended to deny the allegation in court.
Mr Whitfield added: “People are always trying to accuse him of some wrongdoing and put him down.
“It’s unfair. He’s staying strong because he is innocent.
“I don’t know what happened but Paul says he didn’t assault any passenger on a train. He’s been charged and he’ll have to go to court. He’s told me he’s innocent. “Hopefully it won’t set him back.” Gascoigne has struggled for years with addiction to drink and drugs.
His team said he still intends to honour his next Evening with Gazza engagement.
The midfielder, who played 57 games for England and starred at the 1990 World Cup when the team reached the semi-final, represented clubs such as Newcastle United, Spurs, Rangers, Everton, Middlesbrough and revered Italian side Lazio.