Kevin Campbell's son pays heartbreaking tribute to Arsenal hero after death aged 54

Kevin Campbell's footballer son has paid a poignant tribute to his father following his death at the age of 54.

The popular former Arsenal, Nottingham Forest and Everton striker has passed away, it was announced on Saturday. Earlier this month, it was revealed that he fell ill in May and was "very unwell" in hospital.

Campbell, who netted 148 goals in 542 appearances, played his last match in February 2007 before transitioning into broadcasting. His son, Tyrese, 24, who followed in his father's footsteps as a striker, left Championship team Stoke City at the end of the season after his contract expired.

In the wake of the heartbreaking news of his father's passing, Tyrese took to Instagram to pay tribute. He wrote: "I appreciate my Dad was admired by many and the outpouring of love has been some comfort for us as a family, so thank you for that at such a difficult time.

"The pain of this is indescribable and as a son you look at your Dad as invincible. He is my idol, the one I wanted to be when I grew up.

"He was the life and soul of every party and room he blessed, a one in a million person that was loved by everyone, a special special person. I'll miss you Dad [blue heart emoji].

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"I would now ask that the privacy of our family is respect as we mourn the loss of an irreplaceable Father, Brother, Uncle and all round amazing human being. "Love you always Dad [blue heart emoji].

Arsenal legend Tony Adams shared a heartfelt message on social media: "Super Kev: a goal machine, a giant of a man, with an even bigger heart. An intensely private and a truly wonderful human being. I'm devastated for his loved up ones, and all of us. Love you Super Kev, Skipper."

Meanwhile, the Gunners said: "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."

Everton also paid tribute: "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."

Forest added: "Everyone at Nottingham Forest is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Kevin Campbell. Kevin spent three seasons at #NFFC and was part of the side which earned promotion from the First Division as champions in 1998. Our thoughts are with his friends and family during this difficult time."