BBC Strictly Come Dancing's Paul Merson 'doesn't want to be there' as fans all agree

Paul Merson, the former Aston Villa FC, Arsenal FC and England football star, is one of the contestants in this year's Strictly Come Dancing line-up, but he has not impressed fans

BBC Strictly Come Dancing's Paul Merson appears to be "so unhappy" and "doesn't want to be there", according to observant fans of the show. The former Aston Villa, Arsenal and England football star has been accused by viewers of looking discontented as he dances with professional partner Karen Hauer.

During the opening night of Strictly Come Dancing, Merson performed a football-themed American Smooth to 'Vindaloo'. One social media user commented: "Paul really doesn't want to be there! " In his interview with Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly, Merson - often referred to as 'Merse' - expressed dissatisfaction with his costume and was reportedly unhappy performing to a song associated with hooliganism.

Another viewer agreed, saying: "I just said the same thing to my OH - are they blackmailing him to be here or something! " Merson and Hauer danced an American Smooth to the 90s football anthem from Fat Les. Another fan noted: "I love Paul Merson but he is not happy with that score! " A different viewer declared: "Right! I'm voting for Paul Merson every week now after that 'vindaloo' music stitch up and encourage everyone to do the same."

They added: "When someone agrees to do this show, you should treat them with respect not make them a laughing stock IN THE FIRST WEEK."

On the opening night, Merson and Hauer came second bottom of the leaderboard.

"That's what we look like. On a cruise ship...on a cruise ship. Look! Seriously! " Paul moaned about his costume before adding, chuckling, "We look like we work on a boat."

Claudia then asked, "We are ready to go on that cruise with you. Are you ready? How are you feeling about this dance? " to which he responded, "Oh yeah, alright. Yeah."