Paul Gascoigne has disclosed that Hollywood star George Clooney has challenged him to a game of pool at his local club, The Dunston Excelsior.
The former England midfielder, 58, explained that a former bodyguard, who later worked for Clooney, facilitated a phone conversation between the two. Clooney, 64, who owns a property near Lake Como, reportedly told Gascoigne: "I hear you're a good pool player. I am going to come to your local to challenge you."
Gascoigne, promoting his memoir 'Eight', recounted the story to the Mirror. He has previously met other celebrities including Dustin Hoffman, Robbie Williams, Princess Diana, and Mike Tyson.
In 2008, former world heavyweight champion Mike Tyson unexpectedly visited Gascoigne at his home in Gateshead. Gascoigne recalled opening his bedroom window to find Tyson in the street, leading to a birthday outing where he felt safe from trouble.
Gascoigne also spoke about his Christmas traditions, travelling 700 miles from Poole, Dorset, to see his family in Gateshead. His family abstains from alcohol around him due to his addiction, and he returns to Dorset shortly after exchanging gifts.
