Campbell to play for Arsenal reserves

Arsenal have confirmed their former captain Sol Campbell will feature for the reserves at West Ham on Tuesday night, with the prospect of re-signing with the Gunners.

The 35-year-old, who left Highbury for Portsmouth in the summer of 2006, has been training at the Gunners' Hertfordshire base since leaving Notts County.

A short statement on www.arsenal.com said: "Tuesday night's reserve team to face West Ham United at Upton Park features Sol Campbell, who plays on a Reserve League registration, with a view to a permanent move back to Arsenal Football Club."

Campbell - capped 73 times by England, playing at three World Cups - is keen to resume his career as quickly as possible after settling his contract dispute with County.

It is understood offers were also on the table from Hull and Newcastle, but Arsenal were always Campbell's first choice, having achieved great success following a highly-controversial move from Tottenham during 2001.

Arsenal on Tuesday night said talks were "ongoing" with Campbell over a contract.

Gunners manager Arsene Wenger also holds Campbell - part of his 2003/2004 'Invincibles' side and who captained Pompey to FA Cup success two seasons ago - in the highest regard.

Speaking last week, Wenger said: "He has a fantastic attitude and good fitness. Of course he is not the youngest, but he is in a very good shape. He can still play in the Premier League, I've said that many times.

"He is important in the dressing-room as well. He's positive with the young players. Every year we have one or two like that and I think a Premier League club will sign him."

Campbell spent five years at Arsenal, and won two Premier League titles, three FA Cups and scored in the 2006 Champions League final defeat to Barcelona.