Tyrese Campbell described his father, Kevin, as his “idol” as he paid tribute to the former Arsenal, Nottingham Forest and Everton striker, who has died at the age of 54
Kevin Campbell’s footballer son has paid an emotional tribute to his father, who has died at the age of 54.
Tributes have poured in for the popular former Arsenal, Nottingham Forest and Everton striker, whose death was announced on Saturday. Campbell, who scored 148 goals in 542 appearances, played his final game in February 2007 before moving into broadcasting.
Everton, where Campbell holds legendary status, said earlier this month he became ill in May and was “very unwell” in hospital. His son, Tyrese, 24, a striker like his dad, left Championship side Stoke City at the end of the season following the expiry of his contract.
Following the devastating news of his father’s passing, he took to Instagram to pay tribute. He wrote: “I appreciate my Dad was admired by many & the outpouring of love has been some comfort for us as a family, so thank you for that at such a difficult time.
“The pain of this is indescribable and as a son you look at your Dad as invincible. He is my idol, the one I wanted to be when I grew up.
“He was the life and soul of every party and room he blessed, a one in a million person that was loved by everyone, a special special person. I’ll miss you Dad [blue heart emoji].
“I would now ask that the privacy of our family is respect as we mourn the loss of an irreplaceable Father, Brother, Uncle and all round amazing human being.
“Love you always Dad [blue heart emoji].”
Pay your tributes to Kevin Campbell in the comments section
Tony Adams, Campbell’s former Arsenal team-mate and captain, wrote on X: “Super Kev: a goal machine, a giant of a man, with an even bigger heart. An intensely private and a truly wonderful human being. I’m devastated for his loved ones, and all of us. Love you Super Kev, Skipper.”
Arsenal posted: “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.”
Everton also paid tribute on social media: “Not just a true Goodison Park hero and icon of the English game, but an incredible person as well – as anyone who ever met him will know. RIP, Super Kev.”
Forest added: “Everyone at Nottingham Forest is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Kevin Campbell. Kevin spent three seasons at #NFFC and was part of the side which earned promotion from the First Division as champions in 1998. Our thoughts are with his friends and family during this difficult time.”
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