Hero and villain

Paul Merson's career reached its peak as he gained selection for Glenn Hoddle's England squad for the 1998 World Cup.

Four years had elapsed since he openly admitted his alcoholism and addictions to gambling and drugs, and France 98 heralded the start of an incident-packed year for the former Highbury hero.His insider's view of the England camp makes interesting reading: consoling an angry Gazza; the ribbing of Hoddle; witnessing the dropping of David Beckham and the rise of Michael Owen; and taking part in the epic match against Argentina. And the road to Euro 2000 is proving to be a bumpier ride than many experts had forecast.On the domestic scene, Merson highlights his unique relationship with Gazza, the angst over his departure from Middlesborough, and behind the scenes at his new team, Aston Villa.