Former Arsenal and Everton striker dies aged 54 as tributes pour in

Campbell’s former teammate at Nottingham Forest, Mark Crossley, confirmed the news on social media.

Taking to X, formerly Twitter, he wrote: “Life can be so cruel at times Absolutely devastated with news of my ex forest team mate Kevin Campbell’s passing, a true gentleman, a great player, a shining light of a dressing room, fun loving guy, thoughts are with all his family and friends RIP mate.”

Arsenal have since posted a tribute on X, confirming the forward’s death: “We are devastated to learn that our former striker Kevin Campbell has died after a short illness.

“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.”

Campbell began his career as a trainee with the Gunners in 1985, before making his senior debut in 1989, after two loan spells at Leyton Orient and Leicester City.

During his time at Highbury he scored 46 goals, before moving to Nottingham Forest in 1995, where he spent three seasons, scoring 31 goals.

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Upon leaving Forest, he moved to Turkey for Trabzonspor, in 1998 – his only move abroad.

He came back to England halfway through the 1998-99 season, on behalf of Everton.

Campbell was signed permanently by the Merseyside club the following summer, spending six seasons there and scoring 45 times.

In 2005 he moved to West Brom, where he spent one season, before finishing his career at Cardiff City in 2007.

He was capped by England’s under-21 side four times, scoring once.

A number of former teammates paid tribute on social media.

Matt Le Tissier wrote: “RIP Kev” [broken heart emoji and crying face emoji].”

Meanwhile, Ian Wright posted on Instagram: “Till we meet again my friend. I love you so much. [broken heart emojis, crying face emojis and dove emojis].”