Pompey favourite blasts Campbell exit talk
Sol Campbell has been accused of unsettling Pompey fans following his quit threat.
The Blues captain has been told he is intensifying supporters' fears over the proposed takeover of Sulaiman Al Fahim.
Campbell yesterday stated the ongoing saga of Al Fahim's 60m buyout of the club has put him off signing a new deal at Fratton Park, as revealed in later editions of The News.
The 34-year-old is now a free agent after his contract came to a end on Wednesday.
Pompey are still keen to hold talks with the former England international, who is attracting interest from a host of clubs.
Reports suggest Newcastle are the latest to join the pursuit, but the defender is unlikely to favour a move to the Magpies after revealing his hunger for stability.
Campbell's statement has served to unnerve supporters already edgy at the protracted nature of Al Fahim's takeover, as due diligence continues.
Ex-Pompey favourite Vince Hilaire believes Campbell should have shown greater responsibility.
He said: 'It seems like Sol Campbell is having a dig.
'He knows the situation with the club and what they are going through, so it's wrong for him to say what he did.
'He's an experienced man and perhaps should have thought better about what he has come out and said.
'Sol can appreciate the club is in transition. That's no secret.
'No doubt he has a few irons in the fire and wants his future sorted.
'But saying things like that is only going to unsettle supporters.'
Hilaire remains confident Al Fahim's takeover remains on course.
He urged supporters to remain patient while the process continues.
Hilaire said: 'Fans are fearing the worst at the moment.
'But it was always going to be a gradual process.
'It isn't going to be easy to go through the books, look at contracts and all the other assets.
'It's not unusual for due diligence to take this time.
'With Pompey fans, though, they are always worried there is something around the corner.
'They know it wouldn't be Pompey if things went smoothly.
'But look at when Thaksin Shinawatra rushed through the purchase of Manchester City, and the problems that caused.
'Everything has to be scrutinised, and done properly. That's why Al Fahim is a successful businessman.
'I believe there is no foundation to the rumours the move won't happen.'
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Friday 10 February 2012
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