Paul Merson says his skin cancer diagnosis took longer than it should have because he delayed getting it checked. Speaking publicly on Good Morning Britain, the former footballer links the delay to personal behaviour, describing it as “laziness” and also as a “man thing,” adding that he did not take adequate precautions. According to his account, he “never” used sunscreen during his playing career. Merson says the experience has led him to urge others—particularly England players—to take skin protection and health checks seriously, warning that early action matters. Multiple outlets report that his comments focus on self-blame for not seeking medical advice sooner and on how typical attitudes toward health can result in late diagnoses. The reports describe his discussion of his battle with skin cancer and frame his message as a caution to athletes and the wider public.