Arsenal legend Ray Parlour retracts 'insensitive' Kevin Campbell tribute

Ray Parlour has extended an apology after being accused of insensitivity in his tribute to ex-Arsenal colleague Kevin Campbell following his sudden death.

Campbell, who was 54, died following a short health battle earlier this week. The former top-flight forward shone during stints at hometown Arsenal, where, alongside Parlour, played a part in the club's double win in 1993, and then Everton, as his sharp shooting made him a fan favourite.

Following Saturday morning's distressing revelation, honours poured out for Campbell who had been hospitalised lately and reported as 'gravely ill'. Notable peers like Ian Wright and Wayne Rooney expressed their grief over social media platforms as did Parlour, reports the Mirror.

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The 51 year old first shared his sentiments on X, earlier known as Twitter, saying: "Devastated hearing the news this morning RIP Kevin. Great player and even nicer Fella. Thoughts with his family at this tough time."

Subsequently, Parlour posted a video where he can be seen mixing Jägermeister and beer in tribute to Campbell before consuming the adult beverage, something he often does on social platforms. However, such an act sparked criticism from fans online following which he apologised and removed the video saying: "I apologise if I have upset anyone in my last post. I wholeheartedly didn't mean to come across as insensitive.

"I loved Kevin and I'm honestly devastated for his family and friends at this terrible time. I'm sending all my love to them and anyone who came across this amazing man."

Arsenal Football Club released a touching statement on Saturday, saying: "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."

In response, Everton shared their grief, stating: "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."

An emotional Wright struggled to voice his sentiments about the loss of his former team-mate while appearing on ITV during Spain's 3-0 victory over Croatia at Euro 2024, confessing: "I can't really go too deep into it. It's very fresh. I only heard this morning."

"Obviously my best wishes and condolences go to his family but it's too soon for me to talk about it. Anytime I start to talk about it I well up. He meant the whole world to a lot of people, especially myself."