Ian Wright fights again tears in emotional tribute to Arsenal pal Kevin Campbell
Ian Wright was visibly emotional as he paid his respects to fellow Arsenal legend Kevin Campbell on ITV.
Campbell, a former striker who won both the league title and FA Cup with the Gunners, has tragically passed away at the age of 54 following a brief illness. His death was announced on Saturday morning, prompting an outpouring of tributes from the football community.
ITV pundit Wright, who shared the frontline with Campbell during their time at Arsenal, was covering the Spain vs Croatia match at Euro 2024 when asked about his friend’s passing. Clearly struggling to keep his emotions in check, Wright confessed: “I can’t really go too deep into it, it’s very fresh. I only heard this morning.
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“Obviously my best wishes and condolences go to his family, but it’s too soon for me to talk about it. Any time I start talking about it, I start to well up. He meant the whole world to a lot of people, especially myself.”
Wright’s heartfelt words followed a poignant tribute from Campbell’s son, Tyrese, a former Stoke and Shrewsbury striker. He expressed his gratitude for the outpouring of support following the devastating news.
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(Image: John Stillwell/PA Wire)
“The pain of this is indescribable and as a son you look at your Dad as invincible. He is my idol, the one I wanted to be when I grew up,” he posted. “He was the life and soul of every party and room he blessed, a one in a million person that was loved by everyone, a special special person. I’ll miss you dad [blue heart emoji].”
Arsenal icon Tony Adams has taken to social media to express his sorrow. He wrote: “Super Kev: a goal machine, a giant of a man, with an even bigger heart. An intensely private and a truly wonderful human being. I’m devastated for his loved up ones, and all of us. Love you Super Kev, Skipper.”
The Gunners said: “Kevin was adored by everyone at the club. All of us are thinking of his friends and family at this difficult time. Rest in peace, Kevin. “.
