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He may have scored some of the finest goals ever seen in an England shirt but sadly Gazza’s basketball skills are some way behind his footballing ability.

The former England star took to the stands with his sister and nephew as he helped encourage Newcastle Eagles fans to raise money for Wallsend Boys Club.

Signing autographs, posing for pictures and even shooting some hoops - the Dunston- born Geordie enjoyed every minute.

The 49-year-old said: “It’s quite nice. Instead of sitting at home with my dad watching the Discovery Channel, I thought I’d come and watch the basketball.”

The Geordie Boy was impressed with the Eagles, the most successful BBL team ever, in their 95-84 cup win against Cheshire Phoenix and pointed out his own credentials.

(Image: Dave Moore)

Speaking at half-time he said: “I’ve been to see basketball at Madison Square Garden but I’m enjoying it here.

“I’ve enjoyed the first half, there’s been lots of points and some good players.

“I used to be captain at school - then I got expelled and wasn’t allowed anymore.”

The ex-Newcastle starlet stood and waved to acknowledge the clapping and onlooking crowd as the on-court announcer alerted everyone to his presence.

A signed England shirt was paraded in front of the Eagles following, in the hope of raising money for Wallsend Boys.

The team is famous for producing the likes of Alan Shearer, Michael Carrick and more recently Fraser Forster.

Both their under eights and under 15s teams were in attendance trying to raise money to help fund end of season tournaments.

The Italia ’90 maestro said: “I’m enjoying it. It’s good my nephew is there with Wallsend Boys trying to get some money because they want to go and play in other countries. Places like Barcelona.”

(Image: Robin Palmer)

Wallsend Boys tweeted on Saturday morning: “Great to have @gazza9gascoigne with us last night at the @NewcastleEagle game which they won. Kids loved listening to his football stories.”

Looking confident and clean-cut, even now Gazza retains his majesty as fans waited with bated breath to see him sink a basket at the end of the evening.

The Euro ’96 semi-finalist slotted the ball through his legs before trying his luck from the free-throw line – both with his hands and head.

After a few attempts he scored to the cheers of youngsters.

Gazza was impressed by just how young the crowd was.

He said: “This is my first time here and I’ve seen them on Sky a couple of times but then my sister said ‘come along’.

“I’m enjoying it, it’s a good atmosphere and it’s good for the kids as well and the community.

“It’s great to see so many kids and people are being really nice and generous too.”