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Wenger insists Campbell in right mood for return

Jim van Wijk
Wednesday 08 February 2006 01:00 GMT
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Arsène Wenger revealed last night that Sol Campbell is "focused" and "determined" to get back into action with Arsenal against Bolton this weekend.

The veteran England centre-back was given extra time off following last week's performance at Highbury, when he was at fault for the opening two goals in West Ham's 3-2 victory and substituted at half-time before leaving the stadium.

Wenger said the 31-year-old, who returned to training on Monday, has renewed focus following his absence, and he still views the defender's experience as vital to his squad's preparations.

"He is determined to help the team as well as he can," said Wenger, who decided to rest Campbell from Saturday's 2-0 win at Birmingham. "We need Sol's experience, his desire and strength and he is all right."

"We have a big game on Saturday," added Wenger, who will be looking to avenge his side's FA Cup defeat at the Reebok Stadium last month. "It is a good opportunity to do well and we will take on the challenge."

* David Beckham has revealed there is a "99 per cent chance" he will sign a contract extension at Real Madrid before the end of the season. "There are no doubts, I will remain here," he said. Beckham is expected to be offered terms until 2009, with his current deal ending in June 2007.

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