Players Cam and player's go...

Today marks the end of 7 and a half years of service to Bristol Rovers Football Club from midfielder Stuart Campbell. Following a turbulent 6 months under Paul Buckle's management, it was mutually agreed that his contract would end today, paving the way for a move elsewhere. He became caretaker manager towards the end of last season following Dave Penney's dismissal, tasked with trying to keep the club in League One. He couldn't managed it and we were relegated to League Two. Aside from that and during Campbell's time with the club he captained us to the JPT Final - defeating Bristol City in the process and League Two promotion - via the play-offs in 2007. The year after, in 2008, he was part of the side that enjoyed a successful FA Cup run to the quarter-finals, playing sides like Southampton and West Brom. That in my opinion is the problem though; my fondest memories of Cams came 4 years ago, I've no good memories of him since then. I think that says it all really. His commitment and effort cannot be faulted and although questions need to be asked regarding the management and our current league position, if we are to be successful, a 34 year old with little quality should not be eating up a large proportion of our wage bill.

He's showed unrivalled levels of commitment over the past 7 or so years and for that I thank him wholeheartedly. He has put others to shame during his time in the side. Having said that, whilst I'm sure all Gasheads would concur with thanking him for his service, his part in Penney's dismissal won't be forgotten any time soon. I do hope that he can find a club that will utilise his obvious leadership skills, although I'm not quite sure he will be a first team regular in the football league for that much longer.

Thank you Cams.