In an exclusive interview with 888Sport.com England legend Stuart Pearce reveals that he uncharacteristically shed a tear when watching the recently released Paul Gascoigne documentary while ‘avoiding him like the plague’ during Italia 90.

The 78 cap international affectionately known as ‘Psycho’ is not exactly someone prone to waterworks – ironically that was more Gazza’s domain – but watching the premiere of Gascoigne last week reduced the famous hardman to wiping way a tear or two.

“Yes I was at the premiere of it last Monday. At times it brought tears to my eyes and other times it made me belly-laugh. It brought back some great memories of a wonderful professional and certainly the most talented player I’ve ever played alongside for England”.

On being asked what Gazza was like in between games during Italia 90 Pearce admitted with a wry chuckle, “I avoided him like the plague. We were poles apart as regards to professionalism. He was off the Richter scale and I only wanted to see Gazza when the game kicked off for ninety minutes and after that good luck to Chris Waddle and Peter Beardsley who were on duty to look after him”.

This summer marks the 25th anniversary of the tournament that is widely credited with revitalising England’s love for football, a rebirth largely due to the extraordinary genius of Gazza. Pearce is quick to add his admiration, “He’s a fantastic lad and a person who would do anything for you. Ability-wise we had a world beater in our team a la Messi could win a game on his own”.

Psycho was speaking ahead of this week’s Under 21 Euro Championship where he candidly previews England’s chances and looks back on his six years in charge.

Read the full interview here.