Paul Merson has revealed that he was diagnosed with skin cancer last month.

The Sky Sports pundit was told that he had melanoma by medical professionals in September and kept the illness secret from everyone except his immediate family.

However, the former Aston Villa man confirmed that he has now been given the all-clear after having an operation to remove the cancerous mole.

"I was first diagnosed last month after having a mole on my back checked out by the doctor," said Merson.

"They did some tests and it was diagnosed as being cancerous. I had it removed and thankfully I've been given the all-clear.

"It's obviously been a really worrying time but touch wood I'm all fine and can focus on my work."

Merson's operation left him with around 50 stitches in his back and he is expected to make a full recovery.