Some of football's biggest names sent the troubled star their support.

Gascoigne, 40, was detained under the Mental Health Act on February 20 after he was said to be acting as a "potential menace" at the Hilton Hotel in Gateshead.

After more than a fortnight at Middleton St George Hospital, in Darlington, Co Durham, he was released on Friday and is believed to have gone to stay with his father John in Dunston, Gateshead.

On Saturday, former players and managers welcomed the news of Gascoigne's release.

Ex-England goalkeeper Peter Shilton, who played with Gascoigne at international level, said: "Obviously I hope that Paul gets over the problems he's having. It would be nice to see him get back to what we know he can be.

"We had some great times together, and it is a bit worrying really to see him in the situation he's been in.

"I hope, now, he can get himself back on track."

Former player and manager Ron Atkinson said: "I think I'm sure everyone in football wishes him all the best in whatever happens to him."

Gascoigne had been staying at the Malmaison Hotel in Newcastle for two weeks before the incident in which the hotel said he made guests and a night porter feel "threatened" by his behaviour.

He then moved to the Hilton, where he was sectioned by police.

Gascoigne had an illustrious football career and is still perhaps best known for his exploits in the 1990 World Cup finals in Italy.

He played for a number of clubs - including Newcastle United, Tottenham and Lazio - appearing 57 times in an England shirt and scoring 10 goals for his country.

But the talented midfielder has had a troubled history of emotional instability and erratic behaviour.

Once regarded as one of the world's best footballers, Gascoigne's playing career was plagued by personal problems - many linked to his heavy drinking.

In 2005, he was admitted to hospital with pneumonia - sparking fears over his long-term health - and last year he underwent emergency surgery for a perforated stomach ulcer.