Post by tomo on Jul 8, 2006 18:12:54 GMT
Campbell in surprise Arsenal exit
Sol Campbell is now looking for a new club
Arsenal have announced that defender Sol Campbell is to leave the club so he can seek a "fresh challenge".
Campbell, 31, made 197 appearances for the Gunners after joining the club from arch rivals Tottenham in 2001.
"It is with a sense of pride, achievement and the desire for a fresh challenge that I depart," he said.
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger added: "Sol has been a giant for us but we respect his decision to move on and of course, we are very sorry to see him go."
Since his controversial move across North London in 2001, Campbell has won five major trophies at Highbury.
He was a member of England's World Cup squad, and despite signing a new three-year contract in 2005, he has recently been linked with moves away from the club.
He added: "Playing abroad is something that would really interest me but at the moment I am keeping all of my options open.
"I would like to thank Arsene Wenger for everything he has done for me, the world class players that I have been privileged to play alongside and accomplish so much."
Wenger added: "His desire and presence have been instrumental to our success over the past five years.
"Sol was at the heart of our defence and he will take away with him many fantastic memories, which he richly deserves.
"Winning two Premiership titles, three FA Cups and scoring in the Champions League final against Barcelona will surely be highlights he will treasure.
"I know that the younger players, who have progressed here over recent times, have benefited hugely from playing alongside Sol."
Glad to see that fat idiot off. Laters Campbell
Sol Campbell is now looking for a new club
Arsenal have announced that defender Sol Campbell is to leave the club so he can seek a "fresh challenge".
Campbell, 31, made 197 appearances for the Gunners after joining the club from arch rivals Tottenham in 2001.
"It is with a sense of pride, achievement and the desire for a fresh challenge that I depart," he said.
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger added: "Sol has been a giant for us but we respect his decision to move on and of course, we are very sorry to see him go."
Since his controversial move across North London in 2001, Campbell has won five major trophies at Highbury.
He was a member of England's World Cup squad, and despite signing a new three-year contract in 2005, he has recently been linked with moves away from the club.
He added: "Playing abroad is something that would really interest me but at the moment I am keeping all of my options open.
"I would like to thank Arsene Wenger for everything he has done for me, the world class players that I have been privileged to play alongside and accomplish so much."
Wenger added: "His desire and presence have been instrumental to our success over the past five years.
"Sol was at the heart of our defence and he will take away with him many fantastic memories, which he richly deserves.
"Winning two Premiership titles, three FA Cups and scoring in the Champions League final against Barcelona will surely be highlights he will treasure.
"I know that the younger players, who have progressed here over recent times, have benefited hugely from playing alongside Sol."
Glad to see that fat idiot off. Laters Campbell
