Neil Ruddock has revealed he's had a pacemaker fitted after his explosive row with Paul Merson in which he threatened to beat up the Arsenal legend.
'Razor' Ruddock has a reputation as a football hardman and took issue with Arsenal great Merson saying his drinking is killing him.
Merson has opened up about his own issues with alcohol addiction in the past and was trying to help his old friend.
However, Ruddock responded by threatening to beat up Merson in an exchange filmed as part of the new series of ITV's Harry's Heroes.
But, despite the fiery argument, the pair have now made up and Ruddock is grateful for Merson's intervention.
Speaking to Merson on Instagram Live, Ruddock said: “We had a lovers tiff and I know the way you are you’d be sitting back going ‘Oh I shouldn’t have done anything’.
“But looking back I want to thank you for pulling me up and having a go at me.
“Since the dust has settled I’ve realised you did it because you care, you care about me.
“I admire you for having the balls to do it, not many people would have had the balls to do it. I didn’t realise how bad I was, my heart was.
"And since the show I’ve been fitted with a pacemaker. I know the way you are, I don’t want you panicking thinking you shouldn’t have got involved.
“But I’d like to thank you for doing that mate.”
During the argument, the former centre-back left Merson in tears and was also crying himself as he showed his regret about the argument.
And speaking to Ruddock during their Instagram Live, Merson is now relieved that he was able to help out.
Merson responded: “Thanks, getting into your business I felt a bit bad.
“But then I thought no you’re my mate, I care for you. I took a chance, I was with Dave Seaman and Mark Wright and thought they’ll stand up.
“I was worried, I was like woah. They were tucking into their croissants. I thought: 'I’m in trouble'.
“We’ve known each other since we were 16. I was in that position a year before, it’s hard. I felt like I had to say something. I’m glad I did."
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