Why I didn’t sign for Manchester United during my playing career – Paul Gascoigne reveals

England legend Paul Gascoigne has revealed why he did not sign for Manchester United during his playing career.

Former Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson tried to bring the England legend to Old Trafford but a move failed to materialise.

Explaining why he failed to make the move to Manchester United, Gascoigne said:

“There was the Gaffer [Robson] and Neil Webb, always together [on England duty]. I’m thinking – and I probably shouldn’t say this, because he’ll [Sir Alex Ferguson] probably be watching – but I thought: I’m never going to get a game here.

“And then Neil Webb did his ankle. He got taken off and I got the chance to play with the Gaffer [Robson] in midfield [for England], which, for me, was probably one of the best feelings ever.

“I think that’s one of the reasons I didn’t join Man United,” he continued.

“Because it was just Neil Webb and the Gaffer, constantly [for England] – and Neil Webb obviously played for Man United – so I thought: maybe I’ll not get a game. That was one of the reasons.”

Meanwhile, Ferguson has recently admitted that he still often wonders what Gascoigne might have achieved at United.

The Scot recalled a game at Newcastle where Gazza ran riot against United’s strong midfield as proof of his immense talents.

“We lost one game there [at St James’ Park] on a Bank Holiday Monday, 2-1, and Gascoigne had just come back from injury,” remembered Sir Alex.

“He was unbelievable. He was incredible. I played a midfield of [Remi] Moses, [Bryan] Robson and [Norman] Whiteside and he nutmegged Moses right in front of our dugout.

“He patted him on the head – can you believe it? It was hilarious and unbelievable. I think he was the best English player since Bobby Charlton. I think he was a fantastic player.”

Gascoigne would go on to play for Tottenham Hotspur, Lazio, Rangers, Middlesbrough, Everton and Burnley.