Paul Merson

Brent’s own Paul Merson is embraced with equal admiration for his mastery of the midfield and for his punditry, infusing honesty and vulnerability at every turn.

EARLY LIFE

Born in Harlesden at Park Royal Hospital in 1968, Paul grew up on Sellons Avenue and attended John Keble C of E Primary School then, later, Greenford High School in Ealing. His playing arc began in the streets of Harlesden and, to this day, he credits cage football for his creative and technically sound style of play. Countless hours were spent at King Edward VII Park and Roundwood Park, honing his natural ability for a flawless first touch, and producing stunning goals from range. Formally, he represented Brent District, and was a memorable striker for Forest United Youth Football Club before his football coming of age: joining Arsenal’s youth side in 1982.

Career highlights

As he grew into the game — and his six foot frame — he transitioned from striker to attacking midfielder, making the most of his ability to play cross-pitch passes to perfection. Though he started as an apprentice at Arsenal in 1984, it would take two years before his big break came. Paul made his debut on 22nd November, 1986 and went on to play 11 seasons with the Gunners. Under the leadership of George Graham, Paul became a central component of the North London club’s success, winning the FA Cup, Football League Cup, European Cup Winners’ Cup, and two Football League Championships.

While collecting accolades and achievements, Paul was privately struggling with substance and gambling addiction. Coming to terms with his addiction, he made a public admission of his challenges in the 1994/95 season, ultimately stepping away from the game for three months in order to seek support — always with a return to play in mind. At a time when the culture of professional sport did not celebrate vulnerability, Paul mustered bravery and determination to address his physical and mental wellbeing; it was the first step in a long and generously honest conversation between Paul and his supporters — one that continues today.

He bounced back — such is his story of challenge, recovery, and redemption — and returned to Arsenal in 1995. As managers came and went, including the inimitable Arsene Wenger, Paul’s place in the team remained. That is, until he announced his exit for Middlesbrough at the end of the 1995-96 season. The ‘Magic Man’ as he came to be known at Middlesbrough, helped secure promotion back to the Premier League during his one and only season with the Club. Aston Villa had come calling, and Paul quickly resettled in the Midlands. Playing a creative role in the side, and securing the FA Cup title in 2000, Paul describes his time with Villa as the best part of his career.

He earned 21 full England caps, and represented the nation at both the Euro 1992 and 1998 World Cup. Today, Paul Merson is a mainstay at Sky Sports where he is a match reporter and pundit. He leverages his platform to candidly discuss addiction and mental health, just as he did in 1994, and is the first to credit the London Borough of Brent as a hotspot for talented young footballers.