The 35-year-old may have made a steady return to the Premier League with Arsenal last term, but he did nothing to suggest he should be starting matches every week.
At the moment, with Newcastle's squad wafer thin and Steven Taylor out for a lengthy period, it seems that's exactly what will happen.

Although Campbell would no doubt provide useful back up, his lack of pace is a massive worry and means he cannot be relied on week in, week out.

Added to this is the fact he'll be playing alongside Fabricio Coloccini and between them they are likely to form a defensive partnership that's as slow as a very slow thing running through glue.

It could be that there are more defensive signings to come and Campbell will be given a supporting role after all.

However, considering how little money there is at St James's park and the fact the former Arsenal man has been given the number five shirt it does seem he'll be playing a massive part in the side's quest to re-establish themselves in the top flight, something the latest Premier League odds suggest they will have a hard time doing.

Campbell may well prove everyone wrong and have a fantastic season, but right now anyone with a bit of pace will be relishing the prospect have having a run at such a static back four. Anyone looking to bet on Premier League games should bear this in mind.

He will bring a few positives, most notably experience and leadership, two things which have been noticeably lacking in Newcastle's defence in recent seasons.

Whether this makes up for his obvious drawbacks remains to be seen, but one thing is for sure - it's shaping up to be a very tough season for Newcastle United.