Paul Merson explains why he believes he actually ‘won’ Strictly despite being eliminated

For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Former professional footballer Paul Merson has become the fourth celebrity to be eliminated from Strictly Come Dancing this year and he has given his honest thoughts about his professional partner Karen Hauer and why he thinks he “won” the show. He then explained why he believed he had actually “won” the show saying: “because I can dance, I couldn’t dance before and I can half dance now so it’s a bonus.” Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free Hauer said she was “proud” of Merson, adding: “You’ve been a joy. “You’re what Strictly is about and I want to thank you for bringing such joy and just showing everyone that it is possible with a little bit of work and lots of giggles.” Paul Merson has been eliminated from ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ While Merson was eliminated, Gill’s presence in the bottom two is considered a surprise given that he and his dance partner Amy Dowden were early favourites to win the series.