Happy birthday, mate – and lots more of them
A former teammate who shot through the ranks with Paul Gascoigne has paid tribute as the star turns 50. Joe Allon has known Gazza since they were 10 years old and they would go on to star in the Newcastle United side that won the FA Youth Cup in May 1985. His career didn’t hit the same heights as superstar Gazza but Joe played for the Magpies under Jack Charlton before finding success at Hartlepool United and Chelsea. Gazza marked his 50th birthday yesterday, and Joe has looked back on their youth success. He said: “Me and Paul were canny players in a very, very good side. Players like Gazza - he made me. I will never forget that group, he was special.
“We won the youth cup final and he was sensational. He scored two and made my two goals and we beat Watford 4-1. He was the most natural talent I have ever seen. In my opinion, at Italia ‘90, he was the best player in the world.
“He was the man. Gazza was the best player in a very good England side. That was their best chance to win a World Cup and even though it’ll always be remembered for his tears, it should be remembered for his football.”
Joe believes Gazza’s talent shone though from an early age and he knew he was destined for the top.
Joe, a former striker who, like his pal, was born in Gateshead, played for Newcastle for three years before moving to Swansea.
Throughout his career he enjoyed three promotions before retiring in 1998.
He will always treasure his time alongside Gazza.
He said: “It just seems like yesterday when we were playing together. I do not think we have ever properly grown up, we’ll always be kids at heart. He went on to have a fantastic career and I got to make a living from the game. We only ever wanted to be footballers.”
And Joe had a special message for his former teammate.
He said: “I’d love to wish him a happy birthday. He deserves everything - he is one of the most generous lads in the world. Turning 50 is a big milestone - here’s to the next 50.”