There has been a lot of speculation surrounding Sol Campbell with him being linked to Newcastle, Manchester United, West Bromwich Albion and even a return to Tottenham. He has being getting back to full fitness by taking advantage of the amazing training facilities at Arsenal FC.
The former Portsmouth captain’s contract ran out in May, playing his last Premier League game against Wigan and since then, has made his widely publicized transfer to Notts County. After just one game, he left (thats not like Sol is it?!). Arsenal have confirmed that he is now in contract talks with them and looks likely to sign until the end of the season.
I think this is the signing I was looking for as an Arsenal fan. He is free, so it’s right up The Boss’s street as well as not dipping into the illuminous “transfer kitty”. He is experienced, playing some wonderful years with Arsenal even as a captain. He was there when Arsenal last won silverware and he will command respect in the dressing room as he has won trophies.
Wenger must feel (like I have this season!) that his team have a genuine chance to win something so bringing in a respected figure for free carries no risk. How many fans would like Senderos over Campbell? I think I’d take the thirty-five year old every time.
When Liverpool beat United at Old Trafford last year, it was the experience of Sami Hyypia who stepped in as a last-minute emergency replacement. Surely, you would rather an experienced figure-head at the business end of the season.
It’s happened before, experience is the key. Alex Ferguson bought in Henrik Larrson on loan for their first title with a new team in January 2007 in an effort to get his young team over the finish line.
Sol Campbell must have been training well enough to persuade Wenger. He is a person who I would feel calm about, covering for Vermaelen and Gallas should they need or break or pick up an injury. The contract will be short and sweet, testing whether Sol’s still got it.
Arsene Wenger’s team is improving but it speaks volumes that he didn’t want Veira back. We will have to see if Arsene’s reservations about Veira prove correct and judge if he can still do it in the Premier League. I felt a bit gutted when I saw Veira in another English team’s shirt but I think in midfield Wenger has plenty of options.
Hopefully this will be Arsenal’s first signing and then maybe attentions could turn to a striker next.
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