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Ian Campbell: Anyone who questions Arbroath’s Championship credentials doesn’t know our club

Arbroath No.2 Ian Campbell
Arbroath No.2 Ian Campbell is determined to maintain his club's Championship status. Image: SNS

Ian Campbell has issued a rally call to Arbroath fans after launching a staunch defence of his side’s Championship credentials.

Arbroath assistant Campbell and the Angus side’s board met around 80 fans for a Q & A on Thursday as second-bottom Lichties bid to climb the table.

Campbell faced questions on recruitment and loss of form and key players from a squad that came within one win of reaching the Scottish Premiership last term.

He offered an honest assessment of Arbroath’s current predicament.

And he vowed to bolster the squad in the January transfer window to maintain their long-term Championship status.

“Anyone who questions Arbroath’s credentials for being in the Championship doesn’t know our club,” said Campbell.

“This is a Championship club. It’s a big club with a massive future.

“Our job is to make sure we stay in the league this year but also protect the future of the club in the Championship for many years.

“The resources are there, the vision is there, the ability is there and we have the fans right behind us.

“I don’t see why we shouldn’t be aiming to be here for the next ten years.

“It’s not often I reflect on what we’ve achieved at the club over the last six years.

“But when I do I can never under-estimate the part the fans have had in that.

“The supporters have been our extra man here. It feels like we have 12 players on the pitch.

“We haven’t given them much to shout about recently but they are still supportive.

“The marriage between the club and the fans has developed over several years and we need their support all over the pitch.

“From the stand to the terraces behind the goal we want to hear them and feed off their positive energy.

Ian Campbell: It’s important to listen to fans

Arbroath fans have invested into the club with ventures such as the supporters wall. Image: Gareth Jennings/DCT

“Over the last six years the club, board, staff and fans have all grown together.

“The potential has always been there and we only needed to light the touch paper. Arbroath is a Championship club and that’s the way we want it to stay.”

Campbell and his twin brother Dick have never been people to run away from a challenge.

And they are ready to confront the task of Championship survival head-on, starting with Saturday’s clash with Morton.

“It’s critical that we have regular open dialogue with fans,” added Campbell.

“It’s important to listen and learn from what’s being said.

“You can’t hide from the truth and I went through a factual analysis of why we are in this situation and what we are doing about it.

“Everyone is entitled to an opinion and you should always be prepared to hear it.

“We have had many fantastic moments at this club but you shouldn’t only communicate in good times.

“This is a great club and part of sticking together is listening to and understanding each other.”

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