He said: "He has been one of the most outstanding talents. In his career he has had periods through injury or whatever, where things haven't gone the way he wanted them to go, but no-one can deny that when he was at his best Paul Gascoigne was a joy to watch.
"Without doubt he is one the best, I don't really like comparing one player with another, but he is one of the best and I am very fortunate to have worked with him."
But Roeder is hoping that the vintage Gazza does not show up against his side tomorrow night at Upton Park.
He added: "I hope that he is not at his best for this particular game, I know Paul wouldn't mind me saying that."