Defender Sol Campbell is to play for Arsenal reserves at West Ham on Tuesday as the 35-year-old moves closer to a permanent return to the Gunners.

Former England defender Campbell has been a free agent since being released from his contact with League Two side Notts County in December.

Arsenal say he is playing for the reserves "with a view to a permanent move back to Arsenal Football Club".
Campbell played just one game for Notts County after joining from Portsmouth.

The former Tottenham, Arsenal and Portsmouth defender joined County in August, but left less than a month into a five-year deal.

Campbell, who was capped 73 times by England and played at two World Cups, was keen to resume his career as quickly as possible after settling his contract dispute with County.

It is understood offers were also on the table from Hull and Newcastle, but Arsenal was always Campbell's first choice and he is still held in high regard by manager Arsene Wenger.

"He has a fantastic attitude and good fitness," said Wenger last week.

"Of course he is not the youngest, but he is in a very good shape. He can still play in the Premier League, I've said that many times.

"He is important in the dressing-room as well. He's positive with the young players.

"Every year we have one or two like that and I think a Premier League club will sign him."

Campbell spent five years at Arsenal, and won two Premier League titles, three FA Cups and scored in the 2006 Champions League final defeat by Barcelona.

Wenger's decision to bring back the veteran defender, who will provide cover for Thomas Vermaelen and William Gallas alongside the 32-year-old Mikael Silvestre, will cast further doubt over the future of Philippe Senderos.

Campbell is able to play for Arsenal reserves on Tuesday under a special registration.

BBC SPORT