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Xtra Time Web Desk: Tata Steel World 25 K Kolkata International Ambassador Sol Campbell today said events like such as this, where there is an amalgamation of athletes from within the country and cross borders, raises the overall standard of the competition, encouraging multitudes to participate and take a step  towards healthy lifestyle.

“Running is key to achieve fitness, it enhances stamina and physical tenacity. As a footballer for me running was at the core of my fitness regime,” Sol, part of the Arsenal’s fabled invincibles, said while addressing the media today. 

“Being competitive is important for me as I was born in a big family and I am from the streets. Street is the place where I learnt most of my football. I played street football until the age of 14. Street football never allowed me to forget my roots,” Sol said while talking about his early career.  

 In his five years and 195 appearances at Arsenal, he won two Premier League winners medals and three FA Cups winners medals, encompassing the 2001–02 league and FA Cup double, and being part of the team that became known as The Invincibles for their undefeated 2003–04 Premier League campaign. He scored Arsenal's only goal in their 2–1 defeat to Barcelona in the 2006 UEFA Champions League final.

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“First season of Arsenal was incredible and stood out for me despite being stressful for having crossed over from (Tottenham) Spurs. I don't think anyone else in the world other than Figo was under that amount of scrutiny and pressure. I was in a pressure cooker-like situation as soon as I woke up, when I walked on the streets, when I went to the train, when I went to eat something, it was everywhere. People were always second guessing. I had to deal with it,” Sol bared his heart out talking about his journey to Etihad from Spurs. 

Recounting his last tour to the city, “I was in the city for the U17 world cup for the finals where England played against Spain. England had an amazing victory, especially, as an Englishman, I was proud. Philip Walter Foden and Conor Gallagher were in the team and have gone pretty well too.”

“Last night was amazing. It was lovely to see the fans around the world, that's a special thing for me. I received a great reception, it was like love is in the air and the appreciation for what I have done for Arsenal. Passion for football here in Kolkata is amazing, they really know how to enjoy the game I had a little taste of it the last time I visited. Football is there in their roots and they have a history too, which inspire kids to take up the game seriously,” he said talking about his experience after landing in the city last night. 

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Talking about his role in the TSW 25K Kolkata he said, “I am all here as a big advocate for fitness and the game. Fitness is something that is required for running as well. My fitness routine involves walking, cutting on meat consumption, it helps in streamlining the body specially when I am not playing or training. I live in country, go for walks, take my dogs for a walk and play tennis. 

Running is a great key to achieve fitness, it enhances stamina and physical tenacity. Events like this, where there is an amalgamation of athletes from within the country and cross borders along with 20,000 commoners, encourage multitudes to participate and take their initiative towards fitness.”

About his love for cricket, he said, “Coming from a Jamaican household, I like cricket, but not a connoisseur of cricket. I appreciate the players and the game. It is gigantic in India but I don't know the ins and outs of the game. I appreciates sports, whether it be football, cricket or marathons, for I believe indulging into sports is a crucial step towards fitness.”

Talking about whether he would want to coach in India, he said, “I really don't know in what capacity, but I would certainly want to contribute to developing football in India. From the little I know this is a soccer crazy city and football is growing in India and given a chance I would like to add value develop talent in Indian football.”

Remembering the 1998 World Cup, he said, “Football is a game of inches. I scored against Argentina. If the goal was not disallowed we might have won that game. Then again against Brazil suddenly I saw I was sandwiched between Rivaldo and Ronaldinho. I missed Rivaldo’s shot by inches. Maybe with that little deflection (David) Seaman could have flicked it away.”

He was excited about Sunday, “I can't wait to see the race up close on Sunday. I am looking forward to seeing a memorable competition. I am sure it will create an awareness for fitness and running.”