Strictly Come Dancing Odds – Paul Merson next for elimination?

Strictly Come Dancing is set to say goodbye to its third celebrity this Sunday, and former footballer Paul Merson is currently the odds-on favorite to be eliminated next.

Betting sites have also seen a tightening of the odds for the Glitterball Trophy winner, with two frontrunners emerging after just three weeks of performances. As the competition heats up, it appears to be a close race for both the top spot and the next elimination.

Paul Merson Facing the Axe?

Former England footballer Paul Merson, nicknamed “The Magic Man,” is the 4/5 favorite to leave the competition this weekend, according to betting sites.

Last week, Merson narrowly escaped elimination, surviving a dance-off against 80s pop star Toyah Willcox, who scored only 15 points compared to his 19 out of 40.

He’ll need to improve his performance in week four to avoid the same fate. Despite a history of winning points on the pitch, Merson now needs to win over the Strictly judges with his quickstep if he wants to stay in the game.

Nick Knowles’ Fate Uncertain

TV presenter Nick Knowles, meanwhile, faces uncertainty. With odds of 13/8 to be eliminated, the DIY SOS host had to withdraw from last week’s Movie Week due to a knee injury sustained in rehearsals.

While Knowles was given a bye last week, rules state he can’t skip two weeks in a row. He has been cleared to resume training, but whether or not he competes will depend on a decision made later in the week.

Chris McCausland Leading the Pack

Comedian Chris McCausland has been a standout performer this series and is now the clear favorite to win.

The show’s first-ever blind contestant, McCausland is currently priced at 10/11 with Ladbrokes, moving him to odds-on status. His consistent performances have made him the one to beat, although former Love Island star Tasha Ghouri is still in the race with odds of 4/1.

Others in the Running

Sarah Hadland, known for her role in Miranda, is another strong contender. Despite finishing second on the leaderboard for three consecutive weeks, Hadland’s odds to win have improved, with Betway listing her at 11/1.

Meanwhile, JLS singer JB Gill is at 12/1, while opera singer Wynne Evans has drifted to 25/1.

As the competition progresses, more surprises and upsets are likely on the way, but for now, all eyes are on Merson and Knowles as the most likely to leave this weekend.