ARSENAL and Everton legend Kevin Campbell died of multi-organ failure due to a heart infection, an inquest heard today.
The striker died in hospital last month aged just 54 – prompting an outpouring of grief from his former team-mates.
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Kevin Campbell died after being admitted to hospitalCredit: Getty
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The former Arsenal star suffered multiple organ failure. Credit: Getty
An inquest into Campbell’s death today revealed the star’s provisional cause of death was listed as multi-organ failure due to a heart infection.
The hearing was told he was admitted to Manchester Royal Infirmary (MRI) in May, but concerns were raised about his care.
Coroner Zac Golombek said the University of Manchester NHS Foundation Trust, which runs the hospital, had declared a level 5 safety incident – the most serious category – in relation to aspects of his care.
He added: “Regarding the circumstances of his death he was admitted to Manchester Royal Infirmary on 15 May 2024.
“He was reported to be fit and well until about January 2024 when he was admitted to hospital several times before this final admission.
“I have been informed that Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, which runs Manchester Royal Infirmary, has declared a level 5 incident relating to aspects of Mr Campbell’s care, citing delays in aspects of his care and diagnosis, as well as concerns expressed about the facilities’ decision-making processes palliative care.
“These matters are now the subject of internal investigations by the hospital trust.”
A full inquest has been adjourned to a date to be determined while the investigation continues.
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 League, the FA Cup, the League Cup and the European Cup Winners’ Cup.
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Arsenal paid tribute to the star, who became a pundit after hanging up his boots on a peg.
The team said: “We are devastated to learn that our former striker Kevin Campbell has passed away after a short illness.
“Kevin was adored by everyone at the club. We are all 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 – made 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 aged just 54.
“Not only a true hero of Goodison Park and an icon of the English game, but also an incredible person – as anyone who ever met him will know.
“RIP Super Kev.”
In a career spanning two decades, Campbell scored 149 goals and made 521 professional appearances.
Along with Arsenal and Everton, he played for Nottingham Forest, West Brom and Cardiff City.
Campbell holds the record for most goals in the Premier League without an England international.
But he made four appearances for England U21 and one appearance for the England B team.
Wayne Rooney, who played with the footballer at Everton, said: “I am absolutely devastated to hear the news about Kev – thinking of his family and friends.
“Kev was a great teammate 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.
“An intensely private and truly wonderful human being. I am devastated for his loved ones and all of us.
“I love you, Super Kev, Captain.”
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The star has performed successfully at both Everton and ArsenalCredit: Getty
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Former team-mate Wayne Rooney was among those who paid their respectsCredit: PA
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