How old is Paul Merson, who is his wife, and did the ex-Arsenal star have a drinking and gambling addiction?

PAUL MERSON will be one of the former England internationals pulling on their football boots once again in Harry Redknapp’s TV show Harry’s Heroes.

The former Arsenal midfielder will line up alongside the likes of David Seaman, Matt Le Tissier, Ray Parlour and Robbie Fowler to face their old foes, Germany.

How old is Paul Merson?

The Londoner was born March 20, 1968 – meaning he will celebrate his 51st birthday on Wednesday.

Merson had an distinguished career as a player, winning the First Division – now Premier League – twice with Arsenal.

The attacking midfielder also played for Middlesbrough, Aston Villa, Portsmouth and Walsall – becoming player-manager at the latter.

Merson also turned out 21 times for England, taking part in the 1998 World Cup where they lost to Argentina in the infamous penalty shootout.

Nowadays, he is most notably seen as one of the panellists on Gillette Soccer Saturday, covering one of the headline matches for Sky Sports.

Merson also co-hosts their Fantasy Football Club programme alongside Max Rushden.

Who is his wife?

He is currently married to Kate Merson, his third wife – the ex-Arsenal star previously wed Lorraine Costin and Louise.

The Sky Sports pundit has seven children including a set of twin girls.

Meanwhile, his son Sam from his first marriage with Lorraine, is a footballer, currently turning out for St Albans City in National League South.

Did he have a drinking and gambling addiction?

Merson’s career was often blighted for his addiction to alcohol and betting, along with drugs.

In October 2011, he was involved in a car crash with a lorry, where he was later arrested for drink-driving.

His first wife Lorraine has recalled how she was unaware that he had gambled away £7 million worth – but was never in any financial trouble.

Merson’s childhood sweetheart also claims that he is still afflicted by his addiction and has not yet got a handle on it.