BBC Strictly Come Dancing star dealt major blow hours before live performance

Strictly Come Dancing star Paul Merson has been slammed by It Takes Two guest Matt Richardson who claimed the sports star won't be getting higher scores in the competition

One Strictly Come Dancing celebrity is set to face the music this weekend as BBC audiences will witness the first elimination of the series.

On Friday's episode of It Takes Two, host Fleur East was joined by three guests to discuss the forthcoming live show.

The conversation turned to footballer Paul Merson when Matt Richardson shared his candid opinions.

This weekend, Paul and his dance partner are set to perform a Salsa for the judges, aiming to improve on their initial score of 17.

Fleur offered viewers a glimpse into Paul's rehearsals, noting that he's keen to enjoy his time on the show, reports the Mirror.

She then questioned guest Sian Welby: "Do you think he needs to set the bar a little higher for himself?"

Radio presenter Sian responded: "I think it'll change if he starts getting higher scores, that competitiveness will kick in. He's a footballer! He'll get that energy of wanting to win."

Matt, however, expressed strong doubt about Sian's comment.

He bluntly stated: "I just don't think he's going to be getting much higher scores, I mean come on.

"I'm going to put some money on it, I do know. I think that's about as good as it's going to get!"

Will Njobvu, on the other hand, held a different view, believing Paul could defy expectations.

Laughing and shaking his head, Matt retorted: "Absolutely not."

Despite his harsh assessment of Paul's chances, Matt suggested another contestant might be the first to leave the competition.

The discussion swiftly shifted to Toyah Wilcox, who is presently languishing at the bottom of the leaderboard with a score of 12.

Matt admitted: "I'm not confident, I think Toyah shouldn;t cancel her December holiday, that's how I feel."

Sian chastised him for his harsh remark, while Fleur was left speechless, responding: "Savage! ".

Will suggested that she might be an underdog and could potentially make it close to the finals.

Matt added: "I think she's at risk this week, if she doesn't do really well she could potentially be going."

Strictly Come Dancing continues this Saturday on BBC One from 6:15pm and Strictly: It Takes Two airs weeknights on BBC Two from 6pm