Hull expressed a strong desire to retain Campbell's services for the 2008–09 season, with Hull chairman, Paul Duffen, describing Campbell as "too good for the Championship". Following his successes leading to their promotion, Hull were hoping to secure either a permanent move or another season-long loan, depending on Manchester United's willingness to let him go. However, Campbell repeatedly expressed the desire to return to Old Trafford and try to break into the first team, saying "Now I'm back at United, the plan is to try to force my way into the first team." He added, "I'm going to continue to work hard and try to do enough to stay here and go on from there."