Former England defender Sol Campbell launched into a verbal tirade due to the fact that his name was not on the list of honorary titles awarded in the UK. This award is traditionally held every two years. About 1350 people receive honorary titles.
Sol Campbell“There are a lot of unpopular people who become sirs or receive the degree of chevalier or officer of the Order of the British Empire. But if you look at what I did and what I went through while playing football, then you will understand that I am standing next to some of the great athletes of our country. I am there, at the top, with all of them.
I don't know why they don't pay attention to me in such cases. I am not the only great athlete who has been overlooked.
I was an icon. And he did a hell of a lot for this country. When I go abroad, people recognize me for my achievements as a footballer. It would be great if I had something that meant that I was recognized in my own country.
And I will challenge anyone who says that I do not deserve such an honor. I will also state the reasons why I should be awarded.
Firstly, I played 56 Premier League matches without defeat - this is an individual record. Secondly, he played 49 matches for Arsenal without defeat - this is a record. Thirdly, I became the first black player to score a goal in the World Cup for England.
Fourthly, I am the first black captain to raise the cup at Wembley. Fifth, I am the first black English-speaking player to score in a Champions League final. Sixth, I played in the Premier League for two decades and spent more than 500 matches in the league.
Seventh, I spoke out against racism in football here and abroad. Eighth, I am the only one who has played for England in six tournaments in a row. Ninthly, I got into the symbolic team of the 1998 and 2002 World Cups, as well as the symbolic team of Euro 2004. It turns out that at the whole stage I was one of the best defenders in the world. And how many English people can say that about themselves?
I challenge anyone who says that I don't deserve such an award! There will be no silence on my part!” Campbell quotes The Guardian.
