Stoke swoop to bring in England's Upson
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
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England international defender Matthew Upson has signed a two-year deal with Stoke City FC, joining the club on a free transfer after being released by West Ham United FC.
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Stoke City FC have secured the services of England international Matthew Upson after the central defender agreed terms on a two-year deal following his release by West Ham United FC.
Upson, 32, made over 130 appearances for the east London club but was released following their relegation from the Premier League last season. The former Arsenal FC and Birmingham City FC defender has represented his country 21 times at senior level and could partner Jonathan Woodgate, who arrived on a free transfer last month, at the heart of Stoke's back line.
"This is another fantastic deal for this football club when you consider the quality and experience of the lad and the fact that he is a free transfer," said Stoke manager Tony Pulis. The Potters face FC Thun in the UEFA Europa League play-offs on 18 and 25 August, with the first leg in Switzerland.