Roeder: No swoop for Campbell

Glenn Roeder has distanced himself from a move for Sol Campbell, with the Arsenal centre-back’s age being one of the factors why the Newcastle boss would not pursue a transfer.

Campbell, 31, has been linked with Newcastle and Turkish side Fenerbahce, but Roeder wants younger players at St James’ Park as he prepares for his first full season as manager at the club.

Roeder, who was confirmed as Newcastle’s permanent boss this month, said: “He is a very talented central defender, and I’m very aware of his ability. But I have to say Sol is not a player I am interested in signing.

“The crux of the matter is that if we are to sign another central defender, I would be looking to sign a younger player, although someone still with experience at this level.”

Campbell endured a wretched season, leaving Highbury at half-time during the defeat to West Ham and then missing two months of the campaign through injury and personal matters.

The impressive form of Philippe Senderos and Kolo Toure has led to suggestions Campbell would struggle for a first-team place next season, and he appears to have lost his England berth to John Terry and Rio Ferdinand.

Roeder is aware of Campbell’s class after his role in the England coaching set-up, but he wants to build a young squad at Newcastle.

Roeder added on the club’s official website, www.nufc.co.uk: “I have worked with Sol Campbell before at England level. I enjoyed working with him at France 98.

“I am very conscious of the average age of the squad at the moment, and I want to slightly reduce that if I can.”

Newcastle appear to be ready to replace France centre-back Jean-Alain Boumsong, who was signed by former boss Graeme Souness but has been prone to error. Titus Bramble has been equally unreliable in the same position.

Roeder added: “I do have two or three targets in that position, and if they were to become available then I would be interested.

“I’ve heard about the speculation linking us to Sol and I wanted to nip it in the bud. He’s a good player and I wish him and England all the best at the World Cup.”