Strictly Come Dancing's Paul Merson at risk of leaving as fans spot worrying clue

Strictly Come Dancing fans are convinced Paul Merson is at risk of becoming the first celebrity contestant to be sent home this series.

The 56-year-old appeared on the Saturday night show with bags of energy as he danced an energetic Salsa routine alongside his partner, Karen Hauer. Strutting his stuff to the song Fireball by rapper, Pitbull, Paul put his best foot forward and gave it all he got.

But despite his best efforts, the judges' scores failed to reflect the enthusiasm that Paul had, landing him firmly in the bottom. With things not looking too promising for Paul, many are convinced that he could be packing his bags. Heading over to X at the time, one viewer said: "Paul Merson will be going home."

Another fan appeared to think it was between Paul or TV and music legend Toyah Willcox who could be facing the chop. They wrote: Very difficult to look past Paul or Toyah leaving first. Was leaning towards Toyah pre-show, but given the scores, comments, and early running order slot I think I've just flipped and lean towards Paul going now."

A third chimed: "Toyah or Paul will go tomorrow. But votes will be needed for some." Despite some negative comments, others long to see more of Paul.

Offering an opposing perspective, one fan shared: You know when you feel your life is missing something, but you’re not quite sure what it is? Turns out it’s Paul Merson dancing to Pitbull in a pair of sparkly leopard print pants."

While some also criticised producers for trying to turn Paul into a potential "joke act". One disappointed fan added: "The producers are determined to make Paul the laughing stock but I think he's really entertaining and at least he's giving the SCD experience a good go. I'll be surprised if he isn't in the dance-off tomorrow night. I feel for Karen."

Another also shared: "I feel really sorry for Paul Merson watching Strictly because you can tell he wants to do so much better and be taken more seriously….Strictly better not do him dirty next week."

Paul and Karen received a score of 15. Talking about his performance, Paul told presenter Claudia Winkleman that his wife criticised his steps during rehearsal and that she was similar to judge Craig Revel Horwood.

He said: "She was a bit like Craig to be fair. I showed her the video yesterday and slaughtered it and I was like 'My God, not you as well.'"

Strictly Come Dancing is available to watch on BBC Iplayer.