Former England footballer Paul Merson is to explore the relationship between gambling and football for a new BBC documentary.
The 53-year-old has spoken candidly about his own past gambling addictions that saw him bet vast quantities of money over a period of 30 years but he is now on the road to recovery.
In the one-off piece Paul Merson: Football, Gambling and Me, Merson will try to understand what triggers gambling addiction by meeting scientists and undergoing therapy.
Speaking about the project, he said: "If this film helps just one other person affected by the issue of problem gambling, it's been worthwhile."
Jack Bootle, the BBC's head of commissioning for natural history and science, added: "Watching England reach the finals of the Euros has been a dream come true.
"But, as we watch, it's impossible to escape the constant marketing campaigns from the betting industry.
"With fans and players at risk of being drawn into addiction, it's the perfect time for Paul to explore the uncomfortable relationship between football and the gambling industry - and ask if it needs to change."
The one-hour documentary is slated to air on BBC One and iPlayer later this year.
Neil Wilkes
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