Merge and Center not working

[Hopeduck]

I am trying to create a table. When I do this, I cannot merge and center the top column. The option is completely blank. Even when I try and create my own table manually by using borders, I am getting the same issue. It is grayed out. Can anyone help me fix this? 

Thank you,

Hope

[#2]

@Hopeduck 

First of all, if you are really wanting to have an Excel Table, expecting to be able to take advantage of some of the advantages of Tables, then you really should not be trying to merge cells. Granted, it might "look nicer" but functionality trumps aesthetics in this case.

There is a way to have text centered across a selection without merging cells. You could probably do that above an Excel Table, if you're insistent on having that appearance. It's accessible via the main menu, under  Format.....Cell.....Alignment

[#3]

@Hopeduck 

To articulate in more direct way - functionality Merge & Center is DISABLED for Excel Tables.