Former England and Arsenal star Paul Merson has been banned from driving for 14 months after crashing his car into a truck last year while over the alcohol limit.

Merson pleaded guilty to drink-driving in a hearing at Leamington Spa Magistrates Court that heard how the 43-year-old fell asleep at the wheel after having a “few drinks” at a charity event last October.

The Arsenal legend crashed his Mercedes car into a heavy goods vehicle as he was driving home from the event, the court was told on Wednesday.

Merson made nearly 300 appearances for Arsenal during a 12-year career with the Gunners before later stints with Middlesbrough, Aston Villa, Portsmouth and Walsall. He also earned 21 caps for England between 1991 and 1998.