Tyrese Campbell's heartfelt tribute to dad Kevin as Stoke City FC send message

Former Stoke City striker Tyrese Campbell has paid a heartfelt tribute to his dad Kevin - describing him as "my idol" and "a one in a million person". It was confirmed this morning that the ex-Arsenal and Everton striker had died at the age of 54 following a short illness.

Campbell was a title winner with the Gunners and a hero at Goodison Park after saving the Toffees from relegation in 1999. He had been a regular at Stoke matches, events and youth games over the last eight years since his son Tyrese joined the club from Manchester City.

Tyrese, who departed Stoke this summer, said in a statement: "I appreciate my dad was admired by many and the outpouring of love has been some comfort for us as a family, so thank you for that at such a difficult time. The pain of this is indescribable and as a son you look at your dad as invincible.

"He is my idol, the one who I wanted to be when I grew up. He was the life and soul of every party and room he blessed, a one in a million person that was loved by everyone, a special special person. I'll miss you dad.

"I would now ask that the privacy of our family is respected as we mourn the loss of an irreplaceable father, brother, uncle and all round amazing human being. Love you always dad."

Stoke City FC responded to the news by posting on X: "Sad and tragic news. We are so sorry for your loss, @TyreseKCampbell Our condolences to all of Kevin's family and friends at this extremely difficult time."