Hoddle lays down the law to his players
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The England coach, Glenn Hoddle, yesterday restated his faith in midfielder Paul Gascoigne but warned all his players there would be consequences if they overstep the mark.
Hoddle was criticised for playing the Rangers midfielder, who had been widely condemned for allegedly beating his wife Sheryl, in the World Cup qualifier against Georgia in November.
The coach is in regular contact with Gascoigne, but made it clear that his backing will not always be there if the player does not continue to make progress.
"Paul's situation was a difficult one and my decision wasn't an easy one to make," Hoddle said on BBC 1's Breakfast with Frost. "The only solution was to try to change him, but not while he was in Georgia, only over the course of time. If Paul doesn't change, if he doesn't see his mistakes, there might be another decision down the line. But I felt at the time it was right to give him that opportunity.
"He is keeping up with his counselling and the sessions will continue, with his family and as an individual. They will go on for some time."
Hoddle will not tolerate off-field behaviour of the kind which marred England's recent Far East tour. "Nowadays you can't afford to do that," he said. "Sure, it's all right to have a drink at the right time. But if they go over the line, the players have got to know there will be consequences."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments