West Bromwich Albion 'devastated' by Kevin Campbell news as Arsenal and Everton lead tributes

West Bromwich Albion have joined the outpouring of emotion that has greeted the sad news that former striker Kevin Campbell has died at the age of 54.

News of the club’s former front man’s passing was announced on Saturday, following a short illness.

Campbell featured 45 times for the Baggies in the Premier League after arriving at the Hawthorns from Everton on a free transfer in January 2005. He scored six goals for the club - including the opener against Manchester City five minutes into his Hawthorns debut.

Posting on their website, a statement from the club said: ‘West Bromwich Albion are devastated to learn of the passing of Kevin Campbell, aged 54.

‘The striker signed for the Baggies midway through the 2004/05 Premier League campaign, playing a leading role to help the club complete the ‘Great Escape’.

‘In total, Campbell made 49 appearances across all competitions during his 18-month stay at The Hawthorns, often captaining the side and scoring six goals.’

It continued: ‘Everyone at the club sends their deepest sympathies to his family, friends and loved ones at this terribly sad time.’

Writing on X, formerly Twitter, Arsenal - who Campbell won the league title with in 1991 - said: ‘We are devastated to learn that our former striker Kevin Campbell has died after a short illness. Kevin was adored by everyone at the club.

‘All of us are thinking of his friends and family at this difficult time. Rest in peace, Kevin.’

Everton also paid tribute to Campbell on social media. They wrote: ‘Everyone at Everton is deeply saddened by the death of our former striker Kevin Campbell at the age of just 54.

“Not just a true Goodison Park hero and icon of the English game, but an incredible person as well – as anyone who ever met him will know. RIP, Super Kev.’

Tony Adams, Campbell’s former Arsenal team-mate and captain, added: ‘Super Kev: a goal machine, a giant of a man, with an even bigger heart.

‘An intensely private and a truly wonderful human being. I’m devastated for his loved ones, and all of us. Love you Super Kev, Skipper.’