By Matthew Jones
July 5 2003

Paul Gascoigne has admitted to asking Newcastle United boss Sir Bobby Robson to sign him for Newcastle, but also admits it was just "wishful thinking". Reports are also linking him to Division Three side, Darlington. Former England midfielder Paul Gascoigne has admitted to asking Newcastle United boss Sir Bobby Robson to sign him for Newcastle, but also admits it was just "wishful thinking".

Gazza - who played for his hometown club between 1984 and 1988 - is convinced that he can still perform at the Premiership's required level.

At the age of 36, reports are also linking him to Division Three side, Darlington, who are due to move into a new 27,500 all-seater stadium ready for the new season, but I do not know any more on that at the moment.

Gazza told The Sun, "I really meant it. I would have loved to play for them again.

"I get on great with Bobby and I would have loved to play for Newcastle again.

"Yet you could see he was looking to sign some big, younger names and get the team challenging for the title.

"I think he thought I was still daft as a brush when I said it. But I really meant it.

"Maybe it was just wishful thinking on my part. Yet I would have jumped at it if he had said 'Yes'.

"I'm 36 now, but still feel I can do a job in the Premiership. When I look at some of the players in it, I know I can.

"Newcastle will always be my club. It was where I was born and started. I love the fans and all that the place stands for.

"When I go back and the supporters start singing, it makes the hairs stand up on the back of my neck.

"I would like nothing more than to see Alan Shearer lift a trophy, with Bobby as manager.

"Even though I will never get the chance to play for them in a proper game, I am determined I will pull on that black and white shirt again.

"Running out at that great stadium in front of those fans one more time would make me so proud."

Would you have liked to see Gazza play at Newcastle?
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