Sol Campbell and Michael Owen enjoy the sites at the New Wembley Stadium.
Campbell fit and ready
By Chris Hatherall. Wednesday, 24 May 2006.
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22 May 2006 |
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| VIDEO: England Visit Wembley |
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Click here to see the England Squad on their tour of Wembley Stadium, with their aim to return with the World Cup. |
Sol Campbell says he is fit and ready for the challenge of playing for England in the World Cup Finals.
Campbell has had a difficult season with injuries, missing key matches for Arsenal before getting himself fit just in time for the Champions League Final.
But he believes he is ready for the World Cup and looking forward to his sixth consecutive tournament for the Three Lions - having already played in Euro 96, France 98, Euro 2000, Japan 2002 and Euro 2004.
He said: "It's been one of he most up and down seasons of my career but it's back on track. I got my opportunity against Villarreal in the semi-finals of the Champions League and now I'm ready for whatever comes along.
"The injuries were getting on my nerves but I managed to pull myself together and opportunities opened up for me. I just took it."
The only obstacle in Campbell's way now is trying to get past Rio Ferdinand and John Terry, who are potentially England’s first choice pairing at centre-half.
"I look at it in the same way as I did when I was at Arsenal and trying to come back this season," he said.
"I have to be patient. It's the same with England and what will be will be. I have to train well and keep going. It's a long tournament."
Whatever happens, Sol's experience could be crucial for England and he is delighted to still be in contention ten years after making his international debut.
"I feel privileged," said the defender, who could be in line to play for England B against Belarus on Thursday to get much-needed match practice.
"For me it's a great achievement to be here for ten years and go to six tournaments. I don't think there are many players who have done that. I don't know if England have ever qualified for six tournaments on the bounce."