Football icon Paul Gascoigne has been spotted enjoying some time to himself in the North East after surprising diners at a restaurant in the region earlier this week. 

The ex-footballer, who played for Middlesbrough, Newcastle, Rangers, Lazio, and Tottenham among others, shocked restaurant staff and fellow diners as he paid a visit to Tomahawk Steakhouse in Newcastle.

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Over the last few years, the star, who is affectionately known as Gazza, has been spotted out and about less and less - but his most recent appearance, which happened on Tuesday (December 20), seemed to delight both the staff and customers. 

Posting on its social media page, Tomahawk Newcastle said: "Fantastic to have our good friend Gazza at Tomahawk Newcastle.

The Northern Echo: The ex-footballer was all smiles at the restaurant. Picture: TOMAHAWKThe ex-footballer was all smiles at the restaurant. Picture: TOMAHAWK (Image: NORTHERN ECHO)

"The drink menu may be in hand but he was on the Black Coffee only."

Alongside the post from the restaurant, fans of Gazza were quick to take to the comment section and say the same thing. 

Flocking to the post, countless people commented how well the ex-footballer looked, noting an improvement from his previous health battles with alcohol addiction, while others just wanted to wish the Geordie legend a happy Christmas.

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Meanwhile, some wanted to laud Gazza as the best English footballer of all time.

Commenting on the post, one person said: "Looking well Gazza, keep fighting, and merry Christmas," while another added: "Best English football player ever. Merry Christmas Gazza," and another said: "Well done Gazza! So great to see you looking better and smiling. Congratulations on getting here from the toughest battle."