VWBF23 HEADLINER: Paul Merson
- Type Virtual Wellbeing Festival Headliners
- Start 04 Jul 2023 12:00
- End 04 Jul 2023 13:00
Details
To view this video please use the password VWBF23
Leave your feedback on this session
Paul Merson is a former professional footballer with Arsenal, Middlesbrough, Aston Villa, Portsmouth and Walsall, playing for some of the game’s most well-known managers including George Graham, Bryan Robson, Graham Taylor, Harry Redknapp, Glenn Hoddle and Arsene Wenger.
The most successful part of his playing career was during his time at Arsenal where he won two Football League titles, the FA Cup, the League Cup and the European Cup Winners' Cup. He was also capped 21 times by England, making his debut in 1991 against Germany and playing in both the 1992 European Championship and 1998 World Cup.
Paul lived life to the full during his football career, had highs and lows, good times and bad times – however, all the battles he faced on the pitch were nothing compared to those off it. His many achievements in the game were accomplished despite a long battle with alcohol, drug and gambling addictions.
When he retired from football Paul carved out a successful career in the media with Sky television as a pundit on the Soccer Saturday show and also has become a very popular after dinner speaker.
In 2019 while appearing on the documentary Harry's Heroes: The Full English, Paul opened up about how his gambling addiction had affected his life, and his continued struggles with the addiction. He received praise for his candid discussion of the topic. He has also spoken about how his drink, drug and gambling habits also fuelled his struggles with his mental health.
If you think you may need support for addictions you can find out more about Alcoholics Anonymous and Gamblers Anonymous.