Paul Merson says Sol Campbell can help accelerate the development of Newcastle United's young players.
Campbell has been kept out of the Toon side by the fine form of Mike Williamson and Fabricio Coloccini.
But former Arsenal and Aston Villa star Merson told the Sunday Sun: "Sol is just top, top drawer. Just to have him around the place is a real bonus.
"He is a great centre-half, but he's also the model professional and that will be rubbing off on some of the younger players there.
"They will be picking up the way he conducts himself and the way he trains - it can only be good for Newcastle.
"I'm sure he'll play a part this year. You pick up those kind of injuries when you get older but he's a naturally fit lad and it won't take him long to get back.
"When he does, he's a great option for Chris to have.
"Last year for Arsenal I thought he was as good as anyone in the division in the second half of the season.
"To be honest I was surprised that Arsenal didn't keep hold of him for another year - it was a great deal for Newcastle to get him."
