The football world mourns the loss of former Premier League striker Kevin Campbell, who passed away at the age of 54 after a short illness. Campbell’s passing was announced by his former clubs Arsenal and Everton on Saturday.
Kevin Campbell, renowned for his remarkable career and notable contributions to English football, holds the record for the most Premier League goals—83—by a player who never earned an international cap. His untimely death has left a void in the hearts of fans and former teammates alike.
“Everyone at Arsenal Football Club is devastated to hear of the death of our much-loved former player Kevin Campbell,” the club stated in a heartfelt announcement. Campbell’s journey with Arsenal began as a schoolboy in 1985, leading to his first-team debut in 1988. Over his decade-long tenure with the Gunners, he made 228 appearances, scoring 59 goals. His impressive contributions helped Arsenal secure a league title, an FA Cup, a European Cup Winners’ Cup, and a League Cup.
“To actually play for the team I supported was a dream come true,” Campbell once reflected, encapsulating his deep connection with the club and its supporters.
In 1999, Campbell’s career took a pivotal turn when he joined Everton. His immediate impact was profound, scoring nine goals in just five games, a feat that was instrumental in saving the club from relegation. Over 164 games for Everton, he netted 51 goals, becoming a beloved figure at Goodison Park.
“Everyone at Everton Football Club is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of one of the Club’s most popular and much-loved former strikers, Kevin Campbell,” Everton conveyed on their website.
One of Campbell’s cherished memories was scoring the winner in the 2000 Merseyside derby, Everton’s last victory at Anfield for 22 years. “It was at the Kop End and my view, which will live with me until the day I die, is the Blues in the Kop going crazy,” he reminisced.
In January 2001, manager Walter Smith honored Campbell by making him Everton’s first black captain. “He made me the first black captain of Everton, which is something that I’m so proud of,” Campbell said, highlighting a significant milestone in his career.
Campbell’s career spanned several other clubs, including Leicester City, Leyton Orient, Nottingham Forest, Trabzonspor, West Bromwich Albion, and Cardiff City. At West Brom, he was part of their “great escape” in 2005, as they became the first club bottom of the Premier League at Christmas to avoid relegation.
Kevin Campbell’s legacy continues through his son, Tyrese Campbell, a striker who was recently released by Championship side Stoke City after seven seasons. Tyrese, following in his father’s footsteps, aims to carve out his own path in professional football.
The football community remembers Kevin Campbell not just for his on-field prowess, but for his leadership, passion, and the indelible mark he left on every club he represented. As fans and former colleagues mourn his passing, his contributions to English football will forever be cherished.
Kevin Campbell is survived by his family, friends, and countless fans who will keep his memory alive in their hearts.
