We’ve all been there; somebody has dangled a carrot in front of us and instead of thinking through the various pros and cons we quickly take the plunge. Our excuse for what we did was that it’s a bit “out there” and less work for more money is always worth it isn’t it? Sol Campbell yesterday cancelled the five year contract at Notts County on “mutual terms” with the clubs executive chairman Peter Trembling and director of football Mr Sven- Goran Ericksson. The “oldest club in British football” strongly insisted that the split had been amicable and best for both parties, but we may never know what caused Campbell to leave so swiftly and seemingly without reason.
Campbell’s character has always been quiet and slightly withdrawn in discussing his personal life, and with the mystery surrounding the clubs Swiss owners, we may never know what caused him to pack his bags and leave. Perhaps it was the inevitable roughness of the players in the dressing room and on the pitch, who looked upon his £40,000 a week salary with envious and hateful eyes. Another possibility could have been David Beckham telling him not to go through with it, exemplifying his paradox at LA Galaxy as a venture that should not be carried out. Or conceivably, Campbell just couldn’t see himself playing football at 40 years old, at any level.
Although Campbell has greatly embarrassed himself with this transfer mess (he cannot play professional football now until January 1st) it is Sven- Goran Eriksson who has come out looking like the fool. Despite turning down offers from Aston Villa and Newcastle United for his signature, Eriksson spoke to Campbell directly, manipulating the relationship the pair has shared through three international tournaments with England. No agent was needed, as was Sven’s charm on the former England and Arsenal star.
Campbell left confusion in the air at Meadow Lane; encouraging a passing shot and a remainder of his own reality and mortality by manager Ian “Charlie” McPartland
“At Notts County we obviously wish him the best with the remainder of his career and hope that he is able to obtain a place where he can play at international level ahead of the 2010 World Cup.”
Likely indeed.
