Sol Campbell's ready to take centre stage

Campbell set to play a major role in games that could decide Gunners’ season

Published: 28 January 2010
by STSVE BARNETT

Premier League
Aston Villa 0, Arsenal 0

SOL Campbell looks set to be thrust back into the limelight by playing a major part in Arsenal’s crucial February fixtures.
The towering centre-back, who made a sensational return to the club just two weeks ago, helped Arsenal keep a clean sheet at Aston Villa last night (Wednesday). 
Campbell came off the bench shortly after the half-hour mark to replace Thomas Vermaelen, who limped off with a suspected broken fibula.  
The Belgian defender now faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines, meaning Campbell will partner William Gallas in the heart of the Gunners’ defence in key games against Manchester United this Sunday, followed by Chelsea and Liverpool.
Arsenal were twice denied by the woodwork as they battled out a goalless draw at Villa Park.
The first real chance of the game fell to Villa’s Gabriel Agbonlahor, who forced a smart save from Manuel Almunia.
But Gunners captain Cesc Fabregas provided the highlight of the first half when he ghosted past Stilian Petrov, stepped outside James Collins and unleashed a low drive across goal that came back off the post. In the second half Stewart Downing squandered a great chance for Villa, while Tomas Rosicky saw a close-range effort rebound off the crossbar for Arsenal. 
It was a result that saw the Gunners drop more than just points. Eduardo limped off with a hamstring injury, meaning the striker will join Vermaelen on the treatment table.