Ex-England footballer Paul Gascoigne has gone into rehabilitation to "get free of his demons", his agent said, reports BBC News.

The former Newcastle United and Tottenham player, who got 57 England caps, has suffered from alcoholism for more than 20 years.

The star's representatives, A1 Sporting Speakers, said he was seeking professional help to give up alcohol.

In a statement on their Facebook page, they said he had suffered an "annus horribilis" since his nephew had died.

The statement reads: "Paul wants to let everyone know that he has gone into rehab.

"He is making a serious effort to get free of his demons and trying to become alcohol free for 2017.

"I'm not religious at all but if any of you are, say a prayer for him."