Hartlepool's Jeff Stelling brands Paul Merson's exit from BBC Strictly Come Dancing as 'unfair'

-Credit: (Image: Reach Publishing Services Limited)
-Credit: (Image: Reach Publishing Services Limited)


Hartlepudlian Jeff Stelling displayed his discontent after his pal Paul Merson was unexpectedly ousted from BBC's Strictly Come Dancing over the weekend.

Despite the former Arsenal player leaving the much-loved dance show following a stint lasting five weeks, his ex-Sky Sports colleague wasn't pleased with the outcome and took to Twitter to label it "unfair". Expressing his displeasure on the platform, 69-year-old Jeff backed his friend under Paul's initial message of thanks, writing: "Proud of you Merse. Shame they ruin the show by including people who are trained dancers or have musical theatre backgrounds. Should be people who don't have any dance training imo."

His commentary didn't end merely with feedback, as Jeff also added a sincere: "But you were brilliant," - a feeling that was echoed by his fans. Supporters joined the chorus, agreeing with Jeff's opinion.

One fan stated, "Completely agree @JeffStelling should be zero to hero during the course of the series,", and others shared the sentiment, with one voicing: "Agree Jeff...Merse is exactly what the show should be about. And didn't he enjoy himself too! Brilliant."

The departure came after a nerve-wracking dance-off between JB Gill and Amy Dowden, and Paul with Karen Hauer, reports Chronicle Live. Now, audience favourites JB and Amy are geared up to charm viewers once more in Strictly's renowned Halloween Special.

Following his exit from the show, Paul was brimming with praise for his dance partner. He said: "It's been amazing, honestly, amazing. I loved every minute of it, I've had a great teacher. She's been amazing, absolutely amazing and I couldn't wish for a better coach. I've loved every minute of it. I can dance now - I've won because I can dance, I couldn't dance before and I can half dance now. It's a bonus, absolute bonus."

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