‘Pure talent’: Gary Lineker says former Everton player was ‘as good’ as anyone he ever played with

Gary Lineker, the legendary English striker, has recently shared his thoughts on one of his former teammates, Paul Gascoigne, during an appearance on the Rest is Football Podcast. Lineker, who played alongside Gascoigne for both club and country, had high praise for the former Everton player, stating that he was “as good as anyone I’ve ever played with.”

Lineker’s career spanned multiple clubs, including Barcelona, Tottenham, and Everton, where he spent a year and scored 38 goals in 53 games. He also played alongside some of the greatest players of all time, including Peter Shilton, Chris Waddle, Bryan Robson, and Peter Beardsley. However, it was his time playing with Gascoigne that left a lasting impression on him.

“An extraordinary human being,” Lineker said of Gascoigne. “In terms of pure talent, as good as anyone I’ve ever played with, but having watched Wayne Rooney as well… different skills, different abilities, but kind of similar personalities, both wonderful players.”

Gascoigne’s time at Everton was unfortunately cut short, with only 37 appearances and one goal to his name over two seasons. However, Lineker’s comments suggest that even in decline, Gascoigne still possessed a level of talent that few others could match.

Lineker’s own career was marked by incredible success, including a Golden Boot win at the 1986 World Cup and a stint as one of the top scorers in the Spanish league. He has since gone on to become a respected broadcaster and pundit, hosting Match of the Day and offering his insights on the beautiful game.

Despite his many accomplishments, Lineker has never forgotten his time playing alongside Gascoigne, and it’s clear that the experience left a lasting impact on him. “I played with him obviously for club and country,” Lineker said. “An extraordinary human being… in terms of pure talent, as good as anyone I’ve ever played with.”

Gascoigne’s career, on the other hand, was marked by both incredible highs and devastating lows. A mercurial talent, he was capable of moments of sheer brilliance on the pitch, but struggled with personal demons off it. Despite his struggles, Gascoigne remains one of the most beloved and respected figures in English football, and his time at Everton is still fondly remembered by many fans.

Lineker’s comments serve as a reminder of Gascoigne’s incredible talent and the impact he had on those who played alongside him. While his time at Everton may have been brief, it’s clear that he left a lasting impression on his teammates and the fans.

In an era marked by some of the greatest players of all time, Gascoigne stood out as a true original, a player capable of moments of sheer magic on the pitch. Lineker’s praise serves as a testament to Gascoigne’s enduring legacy and the impact he had on those who were lucky enough to play alongside him.

For Everton fans, Lineker’s comments offer a glimpse into what might have been, had Gascoigne been able to sustain his form and fitness throughout his time at Goodison Park. Despite his struggles, Gascoigne remains a beloved figure in the Everton community, and his performances during his time at the club are still fondly remembered by many.

In the end, Lineker’s comments serve as a reminder of the enduring power of football to bring people together and create lasting memories. Whether it’s the thrill of watching a talented player like Gascoigne or the camaraderie of playing alongside a teammate like Lineker, the beautiful game has a way of transcending borders and generations, leaving a lasting impact on all who are lucky enough to experience it.

Gary Lineker’s praise for Paul Gascoigne is a testament to the enduring legacy of one of England’s greatest-ever players, and a reminder of the impact he had on those who were lucky enough to play alongside him. Despite his struggles, Gascoigne remains a beloved figure in the football community, and his talent and personality continue to inspire and delight fans to this day.