Ex-Arsenal star praised for recounting struggles with addiction on Tommy Tiernan Show
"I was powerless over drink and drugs" - Paul Merson recounts his battle with cocaine, alcohol and more on chat show
Viewers of this Saturday's Tommy Tiernan Show have commended former Arsenal and Aston Villa footballer, Paul Merson, following his candid discussion about his battles with addiction.
Former footballer and pundit Paul Merson opened up about his past struggles, expressing that, in hindsight, he now realises he was not a "bad person" but rather an "ill person" in need of recovery.
During his playing days, the sportsman maintained a functional addiction. Despite engaging in excessive drinking, gambling, and cocaine use, he never missed a training session and continued to perform at a high level while the prevalent drinking culture during that time normalised this behavior.
The interview delved into the financial aspect of Mr Merson's addiction, revealing that his increasing earnings as a player fueled his gambling habit. Earning £35,000 a week, he acknowledged that it provided ample resources for his addictive tendencies.
As he aged, the once enjoyable and fun aspects of the Sky Sports pundit's lifestyle began to diminish. He admitted that he often drank for the sake of it, and the social turbulence took a toll on his marriages, leading to two divorces. "When you're on a pitch you're playing in front of 30,000 people 40,000 you score a goal and the adrenaline's through the roof," he stated.
"When you come off the pitch I couldn't come down so I had to stay there and it was either drink gambling or drugs to stay at that at that high."
Now, at 55 years old and in recovery for five years, Mr Merson shared that he has found a balance.
Fans across social media have applauded Mr Merson for his strength in opening up.
One Facebook user wrote: What a man and player, super honest interview. I hope he continues to stay on the road to recovery, stay strong Paul and may your God stay with you."
Another said: "As an Arsenal fan, always liked Merse, good player, as a gambling and drinking he had it really bad, best of luck to a genuine man."
While another wrote: "Brilliant player and man. Met him years ago outside Highbury. Little did I know his struggles at the time. My all time favourite Arsenal player."