Campbell leaves Arsenal with trophy-laden legacy

Sol Campbell has left Arsenal in search of a "fresh challenge". The 31-year-old England defender, who has been linked with Portsmouth and Fenerbahce, has quit with three years left on his contract.

After a controversial freetransfer from Tottenham, Campbell played 197 times for Arsenal and was a member of the Premiership- winning teamin 2002 and 2004. He said: "After much consideration, I have taken the decision to leave Arsenal. I have spent five fantastic, trophy-filled seasons at the club, with many truly memorable moments, including winning the Premiership in 2004 by remaining unbeaten for the entire campaign. So, it is with a sense of pride, achievement and the desire for a fresh challenge that I depart. Playing abroad is something that would really interest me, but I am keeping all of my options open.

"I would like to thank: [the Arsenal manager] Arsène Wenger for everything he has done for me; the world-class players that I have been privileged to play alongside and accomplish so much; everyone behind the scenes, from the directors to the staff and, lastly but by no means least, to the fans. You have been a constant source of warm- spirited support for which I am truly grateful."

Campbell has played in the last six major tourna-ments for England, though he was a reserve at this year's World Cup. He was selected despite a season marred by injury and off-field problems. He walked out of February's match against West Ham at half-time and went missing for several days, but Wenger had nothing but praise. "Sol has been a giant for us since his arrival in 2001," the Frenchman said. "His desire and presence have been instrumental to our success over the past five years, but we respect his decision to move on and, of course, we are very sorry to see him go.

"Sol was at the heart of our defence and he will take away with him many fantastic memories, which he richly deserves. I would like to thank Sol for his tremendous contribution. His commitment, stature and strength of character have served us remarkably well, both individually and as a team player who captained the side."