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    Scots footballer, 35, tragically dies as tributes pour in for local hero who came out of retirement to help beloved club

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    TRIBUTES have been paid to a Scots footballer who has tragically died at the age of just 35.Brian Morgan passed away on Wednesday morning after suffering a cardiac arrest last week and being rushed to hospital for treatment.Brian Morgan was a local legend at Sauchie JuniorsHe scored the winning goal in their East of Scotland League Cup triumph last yearA local hero with Sauchie, Morgan came out of retirement to help the East of Scotland club this season after initially hanging up his boots in May last year.His return came just a few months after scoring the winner in a cup final that was supposed to be his last match.Morgan was brought up in Sauchie and first signed for the Reds as a 20-year-old and had been both vice-captain and captain of the club.He spent two years away from Beechwood Park at Bo’ness United, leaving in 2018 and coming back in 2020.Sauchie sent their condolences to his wife, Zoe, and daughter, Poppy as they confirmed the news on social media.They posted a tribute to the midfielder and described him as ‘one of their own’.A statement read: “Sauchie Juniors were saddened to learn of the passing of midfielder Brian Morgan, aged 35.”Brian passed away on Wednesday morning, following being admitted to hospital after a cardiac arrest. Most read in Football”Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with his wife Zoe and daughter Poppy, as well as his close family, friends and all who knew him.”Being a local boy to Sauchie, Brian’s affiliation with the club started when he watched the team as a youngster before he signed for the club in 2010 as a 20-year-old under former manager and his brother-in-law, Fraser Duncan.The Coffee Club assess who could be Rangers’ next manager as doubts emerge over Daniel Farke’s future at Leeds”He contributed a fair share to the club’s success and lifting of silverware, including scoring two free kicks to ensure promotion to the East Superleague in 2012. “After an initial spell of eight-and-a-half years at the club, he moved on to a new challenge at Bo’ness United.”A notable moment in Brian’s second spell came in the final of the East of Scotland League Cup against Haddington Athletic. This game in particular was set to be his final game for the club, announcing he would retire following the game’s conclusion.”Looking to sign off in style, he would score the winner in extra time with a leaping header to ensure victory. “Brian would take his seat in the stand for the start of the 2024/25 season, but the itch of playing would become too much and he pulled the boots back on last November. “It wasn’t long before he reaffirmed himself as a regular in the starting XI and scoring goals.”His last game for the club would come on 12th April in a 3-2 home victory over Glenrothes, scoring our first goal to help us on our way to three points.”Unfortunately, we do not have the exact figures for Brian’s appearances and goals for the club over his three spells; both like his contributions are countless. “Rest in Peace, Morgy. One of our own.”Other clubs from across Scotland paid their respects to Morgan.League Two side Stirling Albion said: “Everyone at Stirling Albion sends our deepest condolences to everyone at Sauchie along with Brian’s family and friends.”West of Scotland Premier Division outfit Clydebank said: “Desperately sad news, our thoughts are with you all.”East of Scotland Premier Division rivals Penicuik Athletic posted: “Everyone at Penicuik Athletic offers our sincerest condolences to everyone at Sauchie, his family and friends following this tragic news.”Dunbar United said: “Absolutely heartbreaking to read this, all our thoughts go out to Brian’s family and friends and everyone one at Sauchie. RIP Brian.”Team mate Chris Donnelly posted a photo of the pair and said: “This was taken at training on the Tuesday night, we both scored at the weekend and in usual Morgy style he was trying to say his goal was better from our win, an absolutely amazing player and even better off the park, boy was a legend, devastated, thoughts with his family.”Berwick Rangers midfielder Scott Taylor-MacKenzie, who played against Morgan, said: “We had some battles on the pitch but always a laugh and a hand shake after. Anytime playing Sauchie you knew you have to work hard and if Morgy was up against you then you knew you where in for a f hard day. What a player. Love to Brian’s family and to you all at Sauchie.”Fans were quick to share messages of condolence too, with one describing him as a “gentleman”.Another said: “Desperately sad news. Sending condolences to Brian’s family and to the club. A real competitor on the pitch.”A third commented: “Horrible news, so sorry to hear this. Brilliant obituary, great to read about his contributions to Sauchie Juniors over the years.”Read More on The SunAnd a Sauchie supporter said: “RIP my friend, Sauchie legend.”Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

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      Boxing saved Lyndon Arthur from life of crime on gritty Manchester streets after brother was tragically shot dead

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      LYNDON ARTHUR was just 10 years old when his brother was brutally shot dead – but it proved to be an inspiration to his boxing career. Zennen Blackburn was gunned down in Moston – near Manchester’s city centre – in 2002 but still the murder is unsolved. Lyndon Arthur ahead of his fight with Anthony YardeCredit: GettyArthur’s brother Zennen Blackburn, pictured, was shot dead in 2002Credit: YouTubeHis murder is sadly still unsolvedIt left younger brother Arthur heartbroken and confused and heading down the wrong path in his teenage years. That was until his uncle Pat Barrett – a former British and European champion turned trainer – intervened and brought his nephew to the gym. Barrett told the BBC in 2020: “He was sat on the pavement where his brother was shot. “And I drove on the estate and picked him up and took him back to my house, had a talk with him, calmed him down and he stayed with me for a week or two. READ MORE IN BOXING”Then I remember taking him to the gym, it was just a weights gym and I saw that once he was doing something, he picked up on the training. “So I said, ‘Okay then I’m going to take you to the boxing gym now.’ I’m proud of him for how he’s changed his life.” Arthur, who held the Commonwealth title, admitted: “I’m an estate kid and I grew up doing estate things. “It would have been easy for me to be in jail, it could have been easy for me to be dead. So boxing has changed my life.” Most read in BoxingChris Eubank Jr vs Conor BennTHE countdown is ON to one of the biggest boxing events of the 21st CenturyFamilial tension and a rivalry that has been brewing for years will finally be resolved when Chris Eubank Jr and Conor Benn meet at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday night.There has been huge drama in the build-up with the pair engaged in a war of words and multiple clashes in person.SunSport will have full coverage of the blockbuster clash all week and LIVE round-by-round coverage of every fight on a stacked undercard.Latest NewsAll the infoArthur now has a record of 24 wins and just two losses – coming against world champion Dmitry Bivol and Anthony Yarde. And he returns on Saturday on Chris Eubank and Conor Benn’s undercard at Tottenham’s stadium for a trilogy bout with Yarde. Arthur stunned his London rival in 2020 – before losing the rematch a year later – but he dedicated his shock victory at the time to brother Zennen. He said: “My brother, he died a few years ago, but he was here one million per cent.“My brother would have loved to have seen this, but he will be looking down now thinking, ‘Wow! That’s my little brother’.“I was 10 when he died and I could easily have gone the other way. I was never a gangster, but where we grew up it was full of people like that.“It would have been easy for me to go left. I’ve put a lot into boxing, 10 or 11 years now, I’m ranked in the world, I’ve just fought my second headline show and I want to be a world champion.”Arthur – who has a tattoo of his brother’s name on his arm – has a son of his own – Elellveay Van Arthur – who acts as another inspiration to his career. Uncle and coach Barrett said: “I’m proud of what he’s done with his life. “But the way boxing has turned his life around, it’s just that typical what you hear like the Mike Tyson story from the Bronx. Read More on The Sun”Lyndon Arthur’s story is no different from that and how he’s changed his life.” Arthur, now 33, added: “I’ve got a career that my mum would be proud of, my brother looking down would be proud of, anybody that I’ve lost around me would be proud of. My friends are proud of me.” Yarde and Arthur ahead of their trilogy fightCredit: GettyYarde won the 2021 rematch via fourth-round stoppageCredit: Richard Pelham / The SunArthur won the first fight in 2020 on pointsCredit: Getty More

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      More Serie A matches postponed including huge clash in title race as Pope’s funeral schedule confirmed

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      THE SERIE A have announced the postponement of more matches following the Pope’s death.Pope Francis died of a stroke and coronary failure on Easter Monday at the age of 88 after weeks in hospital with breathing problems.The Serie A have announced the postponement of three more matches following the Pope’s deathThe matches were postponed as they were scheduled for Saturday, which is when Pope Francis’ funeral takes placeIt was then announced that all of Monday’s fixtures would be moved out of respect to the pontiff and played on Wednesday.And now football chiefs announced that Saturday’s Serie A fixtures will also be suspended due to Francis’ funeral.There were three games scheduled for that day: Como vs Genoa, Inter Milan vs Roma and Lazio vs Parma. The match between Inter and the Giallorossi posed as the most crucial encounter with the former neck and neck with Napoli at the top of the table tied on points.Read More on FootballThe aforementioned matches are now expected to take place on Sunday instead. Pope Francis’ funeral will be held in St Peter’s Square, Roman Catholic cardinals decided on Tuesday.And the ceremony will be attended by several world leaders, including UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.The Pope was a massive football fan and watched his home country Argentina win the World Cup in 2022.Most read in FootballFifa president Gianni Infantino issued a statement saying he was “deeply saddened” by the pontiff’s death.Infantino posted on instagram: “I was privileged enough to spend some time with him on a couple of occasions, and he always shared his enthusiasm for football and stressed the important role our sport plays in society. Pope Francis is laid out in open coffin at The Vatican for key ceremony“All the prayers of the whole football world are with him.” More

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      ‘He wanted me to go on’ – Son of Arsenal legend Kevin Campbell trying to follow his footsteps and reach Premier League

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      TYRESE CAMPBELL grew up idolising his legendary football dad Kevin Campbell.And now he wants to follow his father into the Premier League by winning promotion with Sheffield United.Tyrese Campbell wants to follow in his fathers footstepsCredit: GettyDad, Kevin Campbell, tragically died last June after illness and complication following a heart and kidney failureCredit: PATyrese told SunSport he is working hard ‘to be the player he knows I can be’Credit: suppliedTyrese wants to win promotion to the Premier League with Sheffield United like his dad did with Nottingham ForestCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdFormer Arsenal, Everton, West Brom and Cardiff star Kevin Campbell tragically died last June aged 54 after illness and complications following a heart and kidney failure.And although the loss of his role-model was difficult Campbell has thrown himself at the very thing his dad gave him… football.The striker has been in good form for the Blades — scoring 10 and adding an assist in his 19 starts since signing in the summer from Stoke. His brilliant form in March in particular — scoring four goals in five games — won him the SkyBet Championship player of the month award.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe told SunSport: “My brothers and I are very much his sons. We’re strong minded and strong willed.“For me I had a day away from football when my dad passed and it was back to work. I didn’t have a club at the time and was training with a personal trainer and a few other lads.“As sad as it was, life does go on and he’d have liked me to do that. He wanted me to go on, work hard and play football and be the player he knows I can be.“For me football helped me take my mind off stuff and softened the blow. I had a great support network around me and I have to give them a lot of credit.”Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKCampbell was born in 1999 so caught the tail-end of his dad’s glittering career with his earliest memories watching him turn out for Everton at Goodison Park.Kevin Campbell had all his major success with Arsenal before Tyrese was born — winning the title in 1991, the FA Cup and League Cup in 1993 and the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1994.Ian Wright fights back tears as Arsenal legend reveals tragic death of brother days after Kevin Campbell’s passingIn total he played 213 games for the Gunners, scoring 59 goals. He won promotion with Nottingham Forest to the Prem in 1998 and, after a short spell playing in Turkey for Trabzonspor, went on to play 160 times for Everton, scoring 48 goals. He then had two seasons with West Brom in the Prem before winding down his career in the Championship with Cardiff.Campbell said: “As soon as I could walk, I was kicking a ball. From then on there was no doubt in my mind I was going to be a footballer. It was when not if.“I never even contemplated doing anything else. When you grow up and see your dad play football that is all you want to do. You want to be like your dad, don’t you?“He was the reason I picked football. I’m grateful for that because I’m certain I’d not be able to do anything else!“My earlier memories were at Goodison, watching him from the box, although I’d mainly be playing football in the corridor!“I’ve some good memories of him playing for Everton and going into the changing room afterwards, going on the pitch with him. There are memories I’ll cherish forever.”Campbell says his dad’s biggest asset was his personality — his ability to make people happy and to engage.The Sheffield United ace even laughed that his own loudness as a person comes from his father.He said: “Dad’s personality was just great. He as loud and bubbly. If you were in a room with him, everyone was included.Tyrese recalled memories of when his dad was at EvertonCredit: suppliedTyrese said he chose to be a footballer because of his dadCredit: suppliedCampbell won four trophies with ArsenalCredit: Getty”Whether you were a little shy or nervous he was always getting everyone up and dancing. He got the party going. You couldn’t miss him. You’d always see or hear him. I’ve taken that trait from him!”Although Campbell has dedicated himself to football these past 10 months, the one thing he misses is not having his dad around to talk to.And during the Blades’ recent three-game losing run which has seen the team slip outside the two automatic promotion spots his dad would have been giving his son the pearls of wisdom he garnered during his great career.Campbell said: “When times were tough in football he was normally the first person I’d speak to. He’d give me the harsh truth and tell me if he thought I was good enough. He’d tell me how it was.“Sometimes I didn’t like what he was saying but then you’d think, ‘Oh actually he was probably right.’“So the two things I miss most is his advice and him.”The Blades travel to Turf Moor today to take on Burnley in a huge win-or-bust game in the race for the two automatic spots. Chris Wilder’s men sit five points behind the Clarets and Leeds with three games left.United lost three games on the spin — their first real dip in form all season — before bouncing back to beat Cardiff 2-0 on Good Friday.And Campbell said: “We cannot be too disheartened. We’ve had a great season and everything is still to play for.“As a kid I wanted the Premier League, watched my dad play at that level and I’ve come off the bench four times for Stoke seven years ago before they got relegated.Read More on The Sun“It’s always been my goal to be an established Premier League player. I want to get there with Stoke.“And I will see my dad again one day — and I just want to make him proud of me.”Join SUN CLUB for the Arsenal Files every Friday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from The Emirates More

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      Nikola Pokrivac dead at 39: Former Croatia star dies in horror car crash as tributes flood in

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      CROATIAN midfielder Nikola Pokrivac has been killed in a car accident aged just 39. The ex-Monaco and RB Salzburg star won 15 international caps from 2008 to 2010.Nikola Pokrivac, 39, has been killed in a car accident in CroatiaCredit: AFPThe midfielder won three league titles with Dinamo ZagrebCredit: GettyPokrivac returned to football in 2021 after being diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma a decade ago. He played for fifth-tier team NK Vojnic after joining the club last summer.Pokrivac was killed following a four-vehicle collision in the Croatian city of Karlovac on Friday evening.Local media claim he was joined in the vehicle by three Vojnic teammates, who were taken to hospital with serious injuries.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLA 42-year-old person in another car was also killed.The Croatian Football Federation confirmed on Saturday morning that Pokrivac had died of his injuries. CFF president Marijan Kustics said: “Nikola was a great football player, who lived football until his last moment in this world.”He showed great courage in life by overcoming a terrible disease.Most read in Football”This is a great loss for our football community, and especially painful for the family.”It is impossible to find words of comfort in such a shocking and unimaginably sad moment when we have lost a young life.”I can only express my deepest condolences to Nikola’s family and loved ones for this irreparable loss.”The HNS [the national football association] and the Croatian football family will be with them in these most difficult moments.”Pokrivac faced England twice in qualifying for the 2010 World Cup.He also featured in Croatia’s successful Euro 2008 campaign, where they reached the quarter-finals. Since returning to the field in 2021, Pokrivac has also been a youth team coach. He enjoyed his most successful playing time at Dinamo Zagreb, winning three Croatian league titles.The club issued an emotional statement on Saturday, writing: “With great sadness and disbelief, we received the news of the severe traffic accident in Karlovac in which, unfortunately, our former player Nikola Pokrivač lost his life. “Nikola will forever remain part of the Dinamo family – as a talented midfielder, a fighter on the pitch, and a man with a big heart.”He played for the Blues 69 times and contributed to four championship titles and three Cup winners’ trophies. “To his family, as well as the families of all those who perished in this tragic accident, GNK Dinamo expresses sincere and profound condolences.”Read More on The SunMonaco, who Pokrivac played for in 2008, added: “The Club was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of its former midfielder Nikola Pokrivac. “To his family and loved ones, AS Monaco extends its most sincere condolences.” More

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      Cage-fighting bosses face manslaughter trial after 23-year-old was killed in ‘absurd’ bout worth pennies

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      CAGE-FIGHTING bosses are facing a manslaughter trial after organising a UFC-style bout where a 23-year-old fighter died.Prosecutors say that three men “neglected essential safety measures” that could have saved victim Joao Victor Penha, who tragically passed away after he was knocked out in the 2023 bout.A Brazilian amateur boxer died after a brutal punch to the chinCredit: X, formerly known as TwitterJoao Victor Penha, 23, has passed away from the fight that was worth £16 to the winnerCredit: X, formerly known as TwitterThe Brazilian state of Ceara say the trio failed to provide headguards and gumshields and made no pre-fight medical checks.Penha was allegedly put in the ring with a far more powerful and experienced opponent.Last year, before the funeral the victim’s sister Lilia Maria da Penha, told local media: “These fights are an absolute absurdity. “The winner of the fight would get BRL 100 (GBP £16), and the loser would receive BRL 50 (GBP £8). READ MORE IN SPORT“My brother’s life was lost over this amount, unfortunately.”Prosecutor Laua Uchoa said: “Three men will answer for the crime of manslaughter. There was negligence in the organisation of the event.”One of the accused has been named as Marcio Marcelo Santos, who at the time was the Secretary of Sport in Jijoca de Jericoacoara, where the unlicensed fight took place.Prosecutors say he allowed the fight to go ahead despite the lack of basic safety requirements.Most read in BoxingFight organisers Pedro Henrique Rodrigues do Nascimento and Natanael William de Queiroz Sousa, were also charged with manslaughter.Prosecutors say they failed to follow any of the safety advice given by fight regulators “creating a fatal risk for sportsmen.”After Penha was knocked cold by a punch to the chin in the bout and was rushed to a hospital intensive care unit.The following day after the blow, on October 8, he was transferred in critical condition to a hospital in nearby Sobral.The young man was pronounced dead on Tuesday 10 October.A hospital statement read: “After conducting examinations, the patient was declared brain dead, which also led to a cardiac arrest.”A range of reports state that he appeared to be on the front foot for most of the bout, which was filmed by an onlooker and had a boxing referee plus safety mats on the ground.Away from his aspiring boxing ambitions, Joao Victor was employed as an HR manager at a hotel on the coast and lived in Jijoca de Jericoacoara with his family.His sister added: “I don’t even know what to say, especially after the tragedy with my brother.Read More on The Sun“We didn’t want him to participate. We were all very concerned; my mother asked him not to participate, sensing that something more serious could happen.“We talked to him, but he asked for our support, and then we had no choice.” More

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      Aaron Boupendza dead aged 28: Aubameyang leads tributes as ex-team-mate dies after falling off 11th floor balcony

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      PIERRE-EMERICK AUBAMEYANG led tributes after football star Aaron Boupendza passed away aged 28.The 35-cap forward, a former teammate of ex-Arsenal and Chelsea star Aubameyang, reportedly died after falling off the 11th floor of a building in China.Gabon star Aaron Boupendza has died at the age of 28 in ChinaCredit: GettyBoupendza reportedly fell from the 11th floor of a buildingCredit: AlamyPierre-Emerick Aubameyang led tributes to his former Gabon teammateCredit: GettyBoupendza had been playing in the Far East after joining Zhejiang FC in January.The striker had previously starred for numerous clubs including French side Bordeaux and Turkish outfit Hatayspor.And before moving to China, Boupendza spent time in America with Cincinnati before heading to Romania with Rapid Bucuresti.The striker had scored four goals and bagged a further six assists in six matches for his most recent side, Zhejiang.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFanatik reports that an investigation has been opened following the tragic news of Boupendza’s death.He allegedly missed his club’s most recent training session “without any reason.”And Zhejiang chiefs were unable to contact him after reaching out.Aubameyang confirmed the news on Instagram as he paid tribute by saying: “I don’t have the words. Rest in peace my brother.”Most read in FootballFormer club Hatyaspor also paid tribute X.They said: “We have learned with deep sorrow of the passing of Aaron Boupendza, who wore our Hatayspor jersey in the 2020/21 season and became the top scorer. “We extend our condolences and patience to his family and loved ones, to the Zhejiang FC team, and to our community. Rest in peace, king.”The Gabonese Football Federation added: “The Gabonese international died following a fall from the 11th floor of his building in China where he was playing for Zhejiang FC.”Aged 28, Boupendza leaves us with the memory of a great striker who left his mark on the CAN (Africa Cup of Nations) in Cameroon.”Fans were quick to pay tribute to Boupendza on social media.One said: “Way too young to die.”Another declared: “Rest in peace dear Aaron.”Read More on The SunOne noted: “Horrible news.”Another added: “May he rest in peace.” More

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      Carlton Fairweather dead at 63: Ex-Wimbledon ‘Crazy Gang’ member and legendary Sunderland coach dies after cancer fight

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      FORMER Wimbledon star Carlton Fairweather has died at the age of 63.The ex-Crazy Gang member passed away on Monday evening after a battle with cancer.Carlton Fairweather has passed away at the age of 63Credit: GettyThe former Wimbledon star spent 9 seasons with the DonsCredit: GettyFairweather was coach of Sunderland Ladies in the WSL from 2014 to 2017Credit: GettyFairweather rose up the football pyramid in the late 80s, going all the way from non-league to the Prem. A native of Camberwell in London, he started his career at Dulwich Hamlet.Spells with Bromley and Tooting followed, with scouts from Wimbledon spotting the tricky winger in 1984. He would go on to make 138 league appearances for the Dons, scoring 26 goals.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLFairweather joined the club in the third tier and helped them rise up the pyramid, with Wimbledon founder members of the Premier League in 1992.He was part of the famous Crazy Gang, who memorably beat Liverpool in the 1988 FA Cup final – although Fairweather sat the game out at Wembley due to injury. Fairweather would go on to play for Carlisle and Connecticut Wolves in the US before retiring in 1999. After hanging up his boots, the winger became a coach with Sunderland Ladies in the WSL. Most read in FootballThe club wrote on X: “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Carlton Fairweather, aged 63. “A beloved character behind the scenes at the Academy of Light, Carlton passed away on Monday evening surrounded by his family and loved ones.”Sunderland’s Chris Rigg is there youngest-ever outfield player Sunderland’s sporting director, Kristjaan Speakman, told the club website: “Carlton’s personality and charisma were unique. “He worked across all aspects of our club and the reason he’s so highly thought of is down to his dedication, humility, and work ethic. “He will be truly missed by all within our club.”A statement from AFC Wimbledon added: “Everyone at AFC Wimbledon was deeply saddened to learn that popular former Dons winger Carlton Fairweather has passed away. “Our thoughts are with Carlton’s family and friends at this difficult time.”Fans from both clubs paid their respects on social media after Fairweather lost his battle with pancreatic cancer.One fan wrote: “So so sad such a lovely man, RIP Carlton, you were one in a million.Read More on The SunAnother said: “A lovely man with a heart of gold.”While a third added: “One of life’s true gentlemen who will be sadly missed by so many at the AOL both players and staff alike. Taken far too soon. More

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      Arsenal legend Kevin Campbell ‘lost over 10st in four months after suffering multiple organ failure before tragic death’

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      ARSENAL and Everton legend Kevin Campbell lost more than 10st in four months after suffering multiple organ failure before his death, an inquest heard.The striker passed away in hospital last June aged just 54 – sparking an outpouring of grief from his ex-teammates.Kevin Campbell died after being admitted to hospitalCredit: GettyThe former Arsenal star suffered multi-organ failureCredit: GettyAn inquest into Campbell’s death today heard he he was “desperately unwell” when he was admitted to hospital months before his death and had lost more than half of his body weight.He had been fit and well until about January 2024 until he was admitted to hospital with heart and kidney failure.No underlying cause for his declining health was identified during his six-week stay and he was discharged two months later after “responding well to treatment”, it was said.But in May last year, Campbell was readmitted after his weight plummeted to 9.3st from 19.5st and he developed gangrene in his toes.He was so weak by this point that his family – including his Sheffield United striker son Tyrese – were told he was not expected to survive.Campbell was put on palliative care within five days of his admission but was still “alert” and “conscious” despite being “very weak”.He passed away on June 15 where it was then discovered the footballer had a rare infection in his heart called endocarditis.Manchester Royal Infirmary (MRI) declared a level 5 patient safety incident to see whether a delay in diagnosing the infection could have contributed to his death.Most read in FootballBut this was downgraded to a level 2 incident and the hospital concluded his death was “possibly avoidable but not very likely”.Consultant Dr Robert Henney said tests suggested the infective endocarditis was “not present during the first admission”.Unearthed footage shows Kevin Campbell tell incredible story about first time he played with 14-year-old Wayne RooneyHe added: “Kevin was so weak as a result of heart and kidney failure and weight loss that even if we had diagnosed the endocarditis on that day (of admission) I don’t think his treatment would have been any different.“What he actually needed was surgery … but he was so weak that was not an option. Unfortunately there was nothing else that could have been done.”The consultant admitted his weight loss was not recognised by hospital staff “as early as it should have been”.Coroner Zak Golombek ruled there had been “clear evidence of a missed opportunity or a delay in diagnosis” of Campbell’s endocarditis.He added: “That has been admitted by the trust.”However, it’s also part of the evidence that this particular missed opportunity or delay in diagnosis would not have more than minimally contributed to Kevin’s death on the balance of probabilities.”During an earlier hearing, Campbell’s family questioned his “delayed diagnosis” and why he was not given an echocardiogram – a heart scan – during his first hospital admission.His brother Harold and sister Lorna today confirmed they were “happy” with the coroner’s ruling that the footballer died from natural causes.Paying tribute, Harold said: “From a family’s point of view, he was a superstar. He was very loved.”Campbell made 213 appearances for Arsenal between 1988 and 1995, scoring 59 goals in all competitions.During his time at the club, he won the old First Division, the FA Cup, the League Cup and the European Cup Winners’ Cup.Arsenal led tributes for the star, who became a pundit after hanging up his boots.The team said: “We are devastated to learn that our former striker Kevin Campbell has died after a short illness.”Kevin was adored by everyone at the club. All of us are thinking of his friends and family at this difficult time.”Rest in peace, Kevin.”Campbell’s former club Everton, where he spent six years after joining in 1999 – making 137 appearances for the club.The Toffees said: “Everton said: “Everyone at Everton is deeply saddened by the death of our former striker Kevin Campbell at the age of just 54.”Not just a true Goodison Park hero and icon of the English game, but an incredible person as well – as anyone who ever met him will know.”RIP, Super Kev.”In a two-decade career, Campbell scored 149 goals and made 521 professional appearances.As well as Arsenal and Everton, he had stints at Nottingham Forest, West Brom and Cardiff City.Campbell holds the record for the most Premier League goals without representing England.But he did make four appearances for England U21s and one appearance for the England B squad.Wayne Rooney, who played at Everton with the footballer, 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 Arsenal star Tony Adams added: “Super Kev: a goal machine, a giant of a man, with an even bigger heart.Read More on The Sun”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.”Campbell made 213 appearances for Arsenal between 1988 and 1995Credit: GettyHe also had a successful stint at EvertonCredit: GettyFormer teammate Wayne Rooney was among those who paid tributeCredit: PA More