IAN WRIGHT paid tribute to his friend and former team-mate Kevin Campbell after he died aged 54.

The former Arsenal striker passed away following a short illness.

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Tributes have poured in for Campbell, including from the Gunners as well as Everton and Nottingham Forest, who he also played for.

Wright also expressed his sadness at the news on social media before being asked about his friend during an appearance on ITV covering the Euros.

The Gunners legend fought back tears as he honoured Campbell, who made 213 appearances for Arsenal.

He said: "I can't really go too deep into it, it's very fresh I only heard [the news] this morning.

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"My best wishes and condolences go to his family but it's too soon for me to talk about it.

"Every time I start talking about it I start to well up. He meant the whole world to a lot of people especially myself."

Campbell passed away after being admitted to hospital at the end of May.

A host of former team-mates have paid tribute to Campbell, including Wayne Rooney.

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He said: "Absolutely devastated to hear the news about Kev - thinking of all his family and friends.

"Kev was a great team mate but more importantly a brilliant person who helped me a lot in my earlier years."

While his old Arsenal captain Tony Adams wrote: "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."