Upson ready to take centre stage for England
Matthew Upson is often regarded as one of the best English centre-halves but his World Cup credentials need to override strong competition. With the first-choice centre-back pair struggling for form and fitness ahead of the tournament, is the upcoming Egypt game the West Ham star's last chance?
Upson is undoubtedly a stern structure at the back, providing a wealth of experience and a résumé that includes 12 years playing in the top tier of English football. However, since his Arsenal days his pledge for International football has often been overlooked, many suggesting he has been restricted by punching bellow his weight at Birmingham and West Ham respectively. The Hammers have been battling relegation this season, Upson providing the much needed stability to a naive side enclosing an assortment of youth. Defensive partner James Tomkins stands at just 20-years-of-age remarkably young for a first team Premier League centre-back, but holding his own under the guidance of his elder counterpart Upson.
Appointed Hammer captain in August after Lucas Neill’s departure, the 30-year-old defender may see this as his last chance to reach the heights of football in the World Cup this summer. The tournament is touted as one of pace - quick wing-play and electric counter-attacks. Recent displays against Tottenham and Aston Villa saw Upson deal with the pace and velocity of the two sides, as their counter-attacking styles looked set to disrupt the East Londoners. Upson is not the quickest of options available to Capello but his inch-perfect positioning and decision-making saw the powerful player nullify the threats of fellow England hopefuls Aaron Lennon and Ashley Young. Often finding himself in the right position to cut out balls into the box, his aerially ability is largely unchallenged by his fellow contenders. This ability was however at fault for West Ham’s early departure from the FA Cup, as Eduardo out jumped Upson to send a late goal shattering past goalkeeper Rob Green.
Matthew Upson has however seen 43 goals fire past him this league season and may be the reason Joleon Lescott or Wes Brown will beat him to the spot. Upson has however been picked by Capello before and the Italian is reported to be a fan of the resolute defender. With 18 first team caps and 12 caps at Under-21 level, there is evidence that all England managers since Upson’s introduction to Premier League football have noticed his indubitable defensive talents.
With question marks on Rio Ferdinand’s fitness ahead of the tournament and John Terry’s surrounding controversy, Upson may not be included just to make up the numbers - the player may be crucial to taking the country to glory in South Africa. Capello has an entourage of talent at his disposal and although most are players from bigger teams, Upson has thus far had a creditable season. He is the first name on the teamsheet for his club side and this may be the difference between he and his rivals for Capello’s final selection. If called upon, the centre-back is a viable option and rest assure this model professional will not let the country down.
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