London, Feb. 4 : Troubled former England football star Paul Gascoigne has announced plans to leave Britain and settle down in Portugal after emerging from rehab "a changed man".

The ex-England footie idol is to start afresh in Portugal close to new love Sally Mulholland, 44.

The Sun quoted friends of Gazza, 41, as saying that he is at his fittest and most sober in years.

"He's out of rehab and back in Gateshead but he won't stay there for long. Friends are looking for a place for him close to Sally on the Algarve. The favourite so far is a modest two-bedroomed villa near Vilamoura," said one of his friends.

Gazza, who had a brief spell as coach to Portuguese club Algarve United, is said to have many work options.

Friends say he is planning a new book and at least one club has offered him a role as an ambassador and talent scout.

"Paul will be sad to leave Britain because he has so many happy memories but he feels it's time to move on. Sally has been a major factor - she has given him the strength to stick with the rehab which saved his life," his friend added.

His rehab has included a pioneering method in which addicts re-learn social skills by bonding with horses.

Photographer Sally - a divorced mum of three - has been flying to Britain to support Gazza. But she has family and business ties in Portugal. (ANI)