Former Arsenal star Kevin Campbell dies aged 54

It is with great sadness that we mourn the passing of former Arsenal star Kevin Campbell at the age of 54. Campbell was a talented footballer who made significant contributions to the sport during his career. His time at Arsenal was marked by his skill on the field and his dedication to the game.

As a college student studying sports history, I have come to appreciate the impact that players like Campbell have had on the world of football. His legacy will live on through the memories of fans and fellow players who admired his talent and passion for the game.

Arsenal said in a statement: "We are devastated to learn that our former striker Kevin Campbell has died after a short illness.

"Kevin was adored by everyone at the club. All of us are thinking of his friends and family at this difficult time."

Everton said: "Everyone at Everton is deeply saddened by the death of our former striker Kevin Campbell at the age of just 54.

Everton also confirmed the news on social media, adding their own tribute: 'Everyone at Everton is deeply saddened by the death of our former striker Kevin Campbell at the age of just 54. 

Kevin concluded his prestigious playing career with the Bluebirds in 2006/07. He previously starred for the likes of Arsenal, Nottingham Forest, Trabzonspor, Everton and West Bromwich Albion across a 20 year period.

Everton were fighting relegation when Campbell arrived but he made an immediate impact on and off the pitch, galvanising the dressing room and scoring nine goals in his first eight games as Walter Smith’s side pulled clear of trouble. The move was made permanent for £3m that summer and he was also Everton’s leading goalscorer for the next two seasons. Campbell scored the winner in the Merseyside derby at Anfield in 1999 – Everton’s last win away at Liverpool until 2021 – and was the club’s first black captain. He remained a regular visitor to Goodison long after his playing career was over, and a hugely popular figure among supporters.

Campbell also had spells at West Bromwich Albion, where he again helped a relegation-threatened club climb to safety in the Premier League, and Cardiff. He retired after being released by Cardiff in May 2007. The former England Under-21 international went on to forge a successful career as a TV commentator and pundit, his warmth, humour and decency shining through on screen as it did whenever he entered a room.

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Sarah H

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