There's no denying just how special a talent Paul Gascoigne was. One of the most iconic players in British football history, the legendary midfielder was an excellent playmaker, capable of moments of trickery which dazzled the world.
Although he endured his fair share of struggles away from the pitch, 'Gazza' still enjoyed an excellent career. Breaking through at Newcastle, he would go on to shine for Tottenham, Rangers and Everton, even becoming one of the best English players to line up for a foreign club when he joined Lazio in 1992. As a mainstay of the England setup for a decade, the maestro gained global recognition for his performances at Italia '90 and Euro '96, with many hailing him for his technical brilliance.
Because of his ability, Gascoigne was a part of many star-studded line-ups over the course of his career and played alongside some true greats of the game. But when it came to fellow midfielders, he reserved special praise for Manchester United and Three Lions legend, Bryan Robson.
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What Gascoigne Said About Robson
Labelled United icon his "favourite player of all time"
Renowned for his technique and work rate in the engine room, Robson was a stalwart for United and England. He remains the Red Devils' longest-serving captain, earning the nickname 'Captain Marvel' for his leadership qualities.
He skippered his nation too, playing for England at three different World Cups as well as Euro 1988 while winning 90 caps. But Robson led by example, charging up and down the pitch to help out in defence and attack.
It was a combination of these things which made such an impression on Gascoigne. Lining up alongside Robson 11 times while on international duty, the mecurial talent remarked that his teammate never gave you a moment's peace.
"He was the ultimate midfielder. He got everywhere, scored goals and was a leader. He didn’t give you a second on the ball. If you got it, you knew Bryan would get stuck in to you."
Speaking about Robson on another occasion, Gascoigne described him as his "favourite player of all time." He added: "The guy was phenomenal and everyone looked up to him as a player, a great bloke. He is a one-off.
"One of the greatest players of all time, for me. If I’d had end-to-end stuff like him, I like to think I’d have been even better.”
Robson Enjoyed Great Career Despite Injuries
Midfielder overcame three broken legs in one year
bryan robson man utd
Robson is still adored by supporters of every club that he played for and is certainly one of United's greatest ever players. He led the club to three FA Cup triumphs during his playing days and, although in the twilight of his United career, played his part in two Premier League title successes in 1992/93 and 1993/94.
West Brom fans hold him in a similar regard, after Robson broke through as a talented youngster at the Hawthorns. Scoring 164 goals during his career and lifting multiple trophies, his resume is certainly impressive. But it could potentially have been even more extraordinary were it not for consistent injury setbacks.
Bryan Robson Career Statistics
Club
West Brom
Manchester United
Middlesbrough
England
While at the Baggies, Robson broke his leg three times in a year, which could have derailed his career in its infancy. Shoulder injuries stopped him from participating in the 1986 World Cup. And he was then ruled out of the 1990 World Cup with another injury. Gary Lineker said that were it not for fitness issues, the midfielder would be in all best XIs.
To deal with as many setbacks as Robson did and for him to still leave everything out there when fully fit, though, is a testament to his character. It was something that Sir Alex Ferguson was full of praise for, and why the dynamic midfielder captained United as long as he did.
"Three broken legs, a broken collarbone, a hundred and one hamstring injuries, ankle injuries, and still played till 37 years of age! So that tells you something about the man. Oh, fantastic."