Timing's right for Sol Campbell, says Chris Hughton
Jul 30 2010 by Stuart Rayner, The Journal
JUST two days after signing his first Newcastle United contract, Chris Hughton believes Sol Campbell will already be thinking about another.
The 35-year-old joined on a 12-month deal after his latest Arsenal contract expired. It is a straight arrangement without additional options, but Hughton feels trying to earn another will be a strong motivation.
“The challenges are all there,” said Hughton, who saw the defender come through Tottenham Hotspur’s youth team. “I know the type of individual Sol is and I think he will be looking at it and if it is a good year for him, anything can happen. The reason he has come is the type of challenge it presents and the stature of the club. Knowing Sol he will want those challenges to continue for as long as possible.”
Newcastle confirmed yesterday Steven Taylor will miss around three months after surgery on his left shoulder. Hughton, who has previously tried and failed to land Campbell, admitted it may have helped persuade owner Mike Ashley to sign a veteran whose five moves have all been Bosman free transfers.
“Whenever you sign a player I think it is all about timing,” he said.
“Around the targets we’ve looked at, you are going to get younger players with a better opportunity for sell-on value, but they are the balances you make. Do you bring in a 24-year-old with great potential to sell on for double what you paid for him?
“Sol is a ready-made player that can walk into your first team. You know it’s shorter term but it fits your need at this particular time.
“Sol has always been on the agenda in the past but trying to sit him down and put pen to paper is another matter. The circumstances at this particular moment were right for him.”
Despite the experience of 73 internationals and a top-level club career, Hughton has discounted Campbell replacing Nicky Butt as captain.
Taylor dislocated his shoulder in the opening pre-season fixture at Carlisle United.
Campbell has been training alone since leaving Arsenal at the end of last season. He also held talks with the Gunners, Celtic and Sunderland before deciding to move to St James’ Park after marrying Fiona Barratt in Corbridge earlier this month. He will not make his debut in tomorrow’s friendly at home to PSV Eindhoven.
