Messages of support pour in for former Arsenal and Everton star Kevin Campbell

Well-wishers from across the footballing world are sending messages of support to Kevin Campbell following news that the ex-Arsenal, Nottingham Forest and Everton star is currently unwell.

The Liverpool Echo has learned that the 54-year-old was admitted to hospital after health concerns arose earlier this week.

Campbell came through the ranks at Arsenal where he was part of the squads which won the First Division in 1991, the FA and League Cups in 1993 and the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1994. All in all he made 213 appearances for the Gunners, scoring 59 goals. He joined Nottingham Forest in 1995, scoring 31 times in 82 games.

After a spell with Turkish club Trabzonspor he joined Everton, initially on loan, in March 1999.

Campbell went on an incredible scoring spree at Goodison Park, knocking in nine goals in five games and thus ensuring Everton remained in the top flight with a game left in hand. Reflecting on his late manager Walter Smith’s passing in October 2021, Campbell shared with the Echo: “I didn’t want it to end like that, I was enjoying Turkey but I needed to be playing.”

Drawing attention to how he ended up with the Blues, he continued, “I was an experienced player and Everton just seemed to be a perfect fit. Walter Smith spoke to my agent and asked ‘what’s the chance we can get him over? ‘”.

“I think there were five clubs in for me and I heard Everton and that was it, I didn’t need to hear any more, and Walter loved that part. I built a relationship with him very quickly, and I think you could see that with the performances in the team.”

“He made me captain as well, the first black captain of Everton, which is something that I’m so proud, and he was instrumental in all the good parts for me so I cannot thank him enough.”

Supporters have united behind Campbell, who starred 164 times for Everton, netting 51 goals, on X (formerly Twitter ). A fan, Ste Kelly posted: “In 1999 Evertonians prayed to God and Kevin Campbell answered. Now we’re praying to Kevin Campbell, time for God to answer and help him. Dig deep big man, scramble for this.”

Ex-Premier League star Trevor Sinclair tweeted: “Sending prayers, love and light to Kevin Campbell. Absolutely lovely human.”

Rob Coppell applauded saying: “Sending love, strength, and best wishes to Super Kevin Campbell.” Emma Webb wrote: “Just heard about Kevin Campbell… sending all my love to him, praying he gets well soon.” Ryan Fletcher added: “Thoughts and prayers go out to Kevin Campbell and all his family and friends. Kevin is one of the nicest guys I’ve ever met really hope he makes a full recovery and gets better asap.”

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