Chess helps Campbell to remain one move ahead

Sol Campbell yesterday revealed that the England squad have been killing time by playing chess. It may seem an improbable scenario to the many critics of footballers' intellects, but a mini-league has been set up.

Campbell, who was reluctant to reveal who was top – or bottom – of the league, said: "It was my idea. I've just got into it and I bought a set out here. It's a good way to keep your mind occupied." The Arsenal defender added: "It's quite relaxed – we don't use a clock or anything. There's a lot of banter about it."

It certainly is a step up the cerebral ladder from card schools. However, from America came a dissenting voice. Manny Steward has been trying to keep Lennox Lewis away from his beloved chess set and the veteran boxing coach's reasons apply as much to England's footballers as to its heavyweight champion prior to his fight against Mike Tyson.

"Chess is good for coaches but not for sportsmen," Steward has said. "I want athletes who can think on their feet and make quick decisions. Not ones who ponder over every move for five minutes."