Jan

Arsenal: Sol to solve Arsene’s rear-guard problems?

Campbell back in the big time

The fact that Sol Campbell is back in the English Premier League makes you wonder how much money he was being offered at Notts County. Sadly, one of the founding lights of the English game have become a bit of a joke figure these days and Sol only managed to make one appearance for them before it all went wrong.

Campbell made his first step back towards the top flight by playing for Arsenal reserves at West Ham United. The player was signed up on a ‘Reserve League Registration’ deal but he has been training with Arsenal in recent months.

The last time Campbell featured in an Arsenal shirt was the Uefa Champions League final and Campbell marked the occasions by opening the scoring for 10 man Arsenal.

Arsenal were clinging on to this lead until the latter stages of the game when a Henrik Larsson inspired Barcelona came from behind to win 2-1. Although the final ended in tears for Arsenal, their defence on the route to the final broke records for keeping consecutive clean sheets in the Uefa Champions League.

Campbell moved on that summer to Portsmouth and surprised many, possibly including himself, by adding further silverware whilst at Pompey. Campbell was captain when Portsmouth defeated Cardiff City 1-0 in May 2008.

Sky Sports News were reporting that the player may be in line for a contract next season if he performs well between now and the end of the season but it remains to be seen how much game time Campbell will get at Arsenal.

Gallas and Vermaelen have performed admirably this season and barring injury or suspension, this duo are likely to remain in position.