Defender reveals sufficiently ridiculous excuse for departure

Having maintained radio silence for a couple of days after his shock one game exit from Notts County last week, Sol Campbell chose to explain himself yesterday in an exclusive interview with the News of the World. Most impressively, the defender managed to keep a straight face throughout:

I knew I would be the club’s first big signing but was told I would be the first of many. Names like Roberto Carlos and Benjani were mentioned - now that would have been a statement of intent. But, for whatever reason, it didn’t happen. And all I will say is that you know when people have money because things happen and they happen quickly.

So, there you have it. Sol split a month into his five-year contract because Notts County didn’t sign Roberto Carlos. In the seven days between his joining and the transfer window shutting. The same Roberto Carlos who has over 120 caps for Brazil. And is currently playing European football in a Fenerbahce team undefeated in the Turkish Super League.

The only thing I’m guilty of is taking people at their word and giving people the benefit of the doubt. So I’m not embarrassed, not hurt or humbled or anything like that - I am just disappointed.

Disappointed with broken promises, eh Sol? Then you may be able to empathise with a certain set of north London fans…

Sol Campbell, 01/01/2001:

I want to play for Tottenham - that’s it. I’ve been here for so long and there’s no reason to think I would want to leave.

Sol Campbell, 03/07/2001:

It was a big decision. I could have earned more money by going abroad but I felt [Arsenal] was the place to be.

‘What goes around…’ etc. so on, so forth.