Campbell Seeks ‘Fresh Challenge’

After 5 service at Highbury, Sol Campbell has decided to move on and look for a ‘fresh challenge’.

Sol released a statement today thanking the club, the players and the fans.

Campbell said: “After much consideration, I have taken the decision to leave Arsenal.

“I have spent five fantastic, trophy-filled seasons at the Club, with many truly memorable moments, including winning the Premiership title in 2004 by remaining unbeaten for the entire campaign. So, it is with a sense of pride, achievement and the desire for a fresh challenge that I depart. 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: Arsène Wenger for everything he has done for me; the world class players that I have been privileged to play alongside and accomplish so much; everyone behind the scenes, from the directors to the staff and lastly but by no means least, to the fans. You have been a constant source of warm-spirited support for which I am truly grateful.

“I’d like to thank everyone associated with the Club for the wonderful memories and wish the team the best of luck in the future.”

Campbell has provide us Gooners with so many wonderful memories, not least giving us premature hope of Euro glory after heading home in this years Champions League Final. Not only has Sol giving us memories on the pitch, but he has only given us one among many reasons to taunt the fans from down the road.

The decision to quit does not come as any great shock, but is sad all the same, a sentiment echoed by Arsene Wenger.

“Sol has been a giant for us since his arrival in 2001. His desire and presence have been instrumental to our success over the past five years, but we respect his decision to move on and of course, we are very sorry to see him go.

“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. He also excelled for England, playing in six consecutive international tournaments since 1998, three of which were during his time at Arsenal. Indeed Sol`s international record is outstanding. He was named in the official All Star Team of the Tournament for the World Cup in 2002 as well as Euro 2004 – accolades that very few share.

“I would like to thank Sol for his tremendous contribution. His commitment, stature and strength of character have served us remarkably well, both individually and as a team player who captained the side. I know that the younger players, who have progressed here over recent times, have benefited hugely from playing alongside Sol. Everyone at the Club wishes Sol all the best for the future.”

So with that, we would all like to wish Sol Campbell all the best in which ever of life’s path’s he chooses, and thank him for his professionalism, commitment and all those crunching tackles.

Good luck big man.