Imagine the reaction of the bookie if you'd placed a bet a few months ago that Sven would end up at Notts County. Imagine his laughter if you'd gone on to do an accumulator with Sol Campbell. Well, if you have the gift of second sight you'll be counting your piles of money right now, as it has been confirmed today that the former England, Spurs, Arsenal and Pompey defender has gone on a free to the second division club.Although big Sol hasn't been part of the England set-up since Capello took the helm, and although at 35 he is in the twilight of his career, Campbell is far from a desperate ageing star. Harry Redknapp has stated that he would have signed him for Spurs, if the fans their did not still harbour such a hatred for him after his move to Arsenal in 2001 (get over it Lilywhites ... footballers are allowed to change jobs just like the rest of us). Campbell confirmed that he'd had offers from Premiership clubs but chose the Notts County gig as it would keep him playing first team football for hopefully another 3 years and was a very interesting challenge for him to help take Notts County to the Premiership in this period.
Another of Campbell's former bosses, Arsene Wenger, has also sung the big defender's praises, but in typical Wenger style also added a note of caution; namely that Campbell would find the conditions in League 2 very different and might struggle mentally. Campbell has of course had problems in the past in this area, but hopefully it will be challenges of a more physical nature that will be the hardest to overcome, for example the pitches!!
Since Sven arrived at Notts County, rumours have been rife. Beckham has even been linked with the club!! It is however fascinating to see how what must be a fairytale for Notts County fans is unravelling - two weeks ago Schmeichel Junior arrived at the club and almost certainly Sven will have other surprises up his sleeve. It makes for great 5 live debates and blogging, so you have to wish the club (and Sol) luck.