Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has paid tribute to England legend Paul Gascoigne. Rooney has sent an emotional message of support to his tormented boyhood hero Gascoigne.

As the fallen England star began his latest battle to beat the booze, Wayne said: "It's a terrible shame about Gazza.

"My best wishes are with him and I hope he can get himself out of this."

The Manchester United ace said Gazza, 45, was his idol when he was growing up in the Eighties.

"He was a hero of mine and I used to dream of being like him," said Wayne, who is praying Gazza can overcome his alcohol addiction in rehab in Arizona.

"It's so sad for everyone to see what's happening to him."

Old Trafford boss Sir Alex Ferguson wanted him - and had cracked down on the booze culture at the club.

And many feel that his hardline stance on drinking would have helped ­Gascoigne to become one of the greats.

Wayne said: "You never know what would have happened if Gazza had signed for United. But what I do know is that Alex Ferguson is the best at making sure his players do the right thing.

"I am sure he would have tried to help him the best he could."