I WAS amazed to see how physically fit Paul Gascoigne looked this week during a TV interview.

I've never been into the media obsession of Gazza-bashing, and it cheered me to see the former Burnley player looking so well - physically, at least.

Although he may have won his battle against the bulge, it's clear the demons in his head are far from exorcised.

In the interview, he talked frankly about his battle against alcohol and depression.

In the past, he has admitted to suffering from obsessive disorders and insomnia.

Thankfully, Gazza seems to be winning his fight against the booze, but every word he utters seems to be the cry of a man who continually needs our help.

The 36-year-old former England midfielder said: "I'm just trying to cope with life without drink - but Christmas will be tough.

"It's been hard work and it'll be hard over Christmas - but I've got to accept I've got an alcohol problem and I can't drink again. I'm gutted - but then I think of some of the things I did when I was drinking."

It sounds like Gazza will always need the help of those closest to him. One slip, and the downward spiral can be steep.

And that's why I'm amazed he is even considering putting himself through a 'big brother' style celebrity game show.

The producers of I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here want Gazza to be part of the new programme, filmed next month in a remote jungle in Australia.

They're looking at it entirely from an entertainment viewpoint. Gazza the prankster. Gazza the clown. Gazza the cry-baby. It's a sure ratings winner.

There will be a camera on him 24-hours a day, filming every move, every emotion. But there's no hiding place in the ITV jungle, and what we could end up seeing is Gazza the emotional wreck.

The man is not a freak show to be wheeled out by Ant and Dec every night at 9pm, and whose fate is decided by phone polls.

This is a man who almost led us to the World Cup final. Let's treat him with respect, and hope he's got the self respect to tell ITV to shove it.