Gascoigne is understood to have been taken ill as he was celebrating his 40th birthday with family and friends in his home town of Gateshead, Tyne and Wear.

His agent, Jane Morgan, issued a statement which said: "Paul Gascoigne was admitted to hospital last evening with severe stomach pains.

"He underwent emergency surgery for a perforated stomach ulcer and will remain in hospital for a few days. He's recovering well from the surgery."

Ms Morgan said she could not add any more detail to the statement at this time.

According to the Evening Chronicle in Newcastle, the former Newcastle United, Spurs and Rangers player was taken ill in the Marriott Hotel, at the MetroCentre in Gateshead.

He was first taken to Newcastle General Hospital before being transferred to the Royal Victoria Infirmary for surgery.

Last week it was reported that Gascoigne had been treated a London hospital following a trip to Dubai.

Both the former player and his agent denied reports he been tested following chest pains. They said he had gone to Barnet General Hospital to have his feet bandaged after burning them on hot sand at the Gulf resort.

Gascoigne won 57 caps for England and scored 10 goals but has had a troubled life since retiring from top flight football, including well documented alcohol problems and bouts of depression.