By Tony O’Reilly-
Former England icon, Paul Gascoigne, affectionately known as Gazza, took center stage as the star guest at a club heroes’ dinner featured in the 2023 Christmas video.
His appearance was a festive treat for fans, having achieved so much for his country on the football field as an England player in the 90’s.
Gascoigne, revered by the Light Blues faithful for his contributions to Walter Smith’s side during the Nine in a Row era, featured alongside current Rangers skipper James Tavernier, Todd Cantwell, and club legends such as Barry Ferguson and John ‘Bomber’ Brown in the Christmas video.
The surprise inclusion of Gazza adds a nostalgic touch, reminding fans of his significant role in the club’s history.
However, the timing of Gascoigne’s appearance raises eyebrows, given his frequent presence in the press this year through various speaking events at shows.
Critics argue that the continuous stream of appearances may be indicative of his name being inadvertently exploited by his handlers, diverting attention from the primary concern – tackling Gazza’s ongoing battle with alcoholism.
The 56-year-old football legend has faced multiple health issues in recent years and has been candid about his personal struggles.
While Gazza remains in the Rangers fold and participated in a charity match, concerns linger about whether the focus should be on addressing his alcohol demons rather than keeping him busy with public appearances.
It is not known whether Gazza himself has been getting paid for the several public appearances he has made this year.
In the Christmas video, Gazza, seen as the final present bearer, presents a festive image, but behind the scenes, questions arise about the extent to which his handlers are managing his public engagements.
One individual present at the event anonymously told The Eye Of Media.Com: ”the place lit up when Gazza turned up, and everyone was happy to be around him.
‘His well documented struggles with alcohol is generally known, but people were just happy to rob shoulders with him and take photographs with Gazza.
‘Nobody was going to mention his alcohol issues, especially as he did not turn up drunk. People just wanted to enjoy his company, and many hope that feeling the love from his fans helps him beat his alcohol problems, and eventually realize that he can love life and feel appreciated, without the need to hit the bottle too hard”
Critics argue that, amid the festivities, the spotlight should be on Gazza’s well-being and the challenges he faces, rather than his recurrent appearances in various events.
Researcher Hortensia Daniels, said about the occasion: ”attendees of any event where Gascoigne is a special guest will always be pleased to have a former sporting legend in their midst
‘However, it is important to be conscious of the wider problems and challenges facing Gascoigne, and that his name is not being milked without the more important objective of addressing his more serious problems.
‘Making him continuously feel relevant is not a bad thing if it boosts his mood and happiness, but it can amount to subtle exploitation if greater focus is not directed at rehabilitating him, and helping him find more meaning in life.
‘presenting a former icon as a present role model can unintentionally serve to normalize alcoholism, particularly one of a serious nature such as that which he is currently dealing with’
The concern remains that, despite the festive spirit, Gazza’s ongoing struggles with alcoholism should take precedence, this leading to a broader conversation about the responsibility of those managing his public image.
The Eye Of Media has more than once called for broadcasters and his handlers to apply a range of approaches in helping Gazza overcome his alcoholic demons.