Campbell completes Newcastle move

Former England defender Sol Campbell on Wednesday completed his move to newly-promoted Premier League side Newcastle on a one-year deal.

The 35-year-old has been a free agent since his short-term deal with Arsenal ran out earlier this summer.

“At this stage of my career I couldn’t have wished for a better move,” Campbell, who will wear the number five shirt, told the club’s official website www.nufc.co.uk.

“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 (manager) 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.

“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 them ready for the season.”

Campbell had been targetted by Newcastle’s north-east rivals Sunderland as well as Celtic, but opted for the Magpies wehre he will bolster a defence that has been weakened by Steven Taylor’s shoulder injury.

Taylor is set to miss the start of the season, which begins away to Manchester United on August 16, but there are fears he could be sidelined for several months, prompting manager Chris Hughton to make his move for Campbell.