Campbell completes transfer to Newcastle

Campbell, also attracted interest from Celtic and Sunderland and will add some much needed defensive steel to Chris Hughton’s Premier League newcomers.

It was only last year that Campbell made the bizarre choice to join League Two side Notts County following his release from Portsmouth. However, he only lasted one game before he walked out on the club.

Arsene Wenger then resigned him for Arsenal in the January transfer window, much to everyone’s surprise, and Campbell performed well at a time when the Gunners' defence was stretched with injuries.

Campbell who has been given the No.5 shirt, was delighted to make the move to the North East.

"At this stage of my career I couldn't have wished for a better move. To join a club such as Newcastle United, with its proud tradition, heritage and magnificent support, is absolutely tremendous for me.

"I'd like to thank Chris Hughton for putting his faith in me and aim to repay him and the supporters by giving everything I possibly can to help re-establish this great club in the top-tier of English football.

He added: "I just want to play and can't wait to get started. There's a real buzz about the place and that's great. I've played at St. James' Park numerous times and always found it a fantastic place to play, there's always a tremendous atmosphere.

"Chris will focus everyone together and get the team ready for the season, it's nice seeing Colin Calderwood too having played with him at Tottenham.

"Getting out on to the training pitch this morning will be a wonderful feeling!"

Manager Chris Hughton added:

"I have known Sol since he was a lad at Tottenham and am fully aware of what he has to offer. That is experience, quality, calm assurance and leadership. He's a dedicated professional, a terrific addition to the squad, and I look forward to working with him again."

Campbell, 35, was with Arsenal at the end of last season, making 11 Premier League appearances which took him on to 496 career games in the Premier League, the fourth highest on record behind David James, Ryan Giggs and Gary Speed.

A former captain of the England team, for whom he made 73 appearances, Sol has the unique distinction of appearing in six consecutive major international tournaments for England; the European Championships of 1996, 2000 and 2004 plus the World Cup Finals of 1998, 2002 and 2006.

Domestically, Sol began his career at Tottenham, whom he joined as a 14-year old, before enjoying moving on to Arsenal and Portsmouth. An extensive trophy cabinet contains two Premier League titles, four FA Cup winners medals and one League Cup winners medal.