Pardew: Upson Will Play For England

Last updated : 06 December 2002 By Rob Cooper
Matthew Upson
Matthew Upson Future England Star? Alan Pardew thinks so
Reading bid their farewell to the hugely successful and hugely popular Matthew Upson tomorrow.

The former Luton centre-back has spent the past three months with the Royals but now must return to Arsenal, having completed his loan stint.

Upson has helped Reading to keep their defence water-tight with some assured displays. The Royals currently have the best defensive record in the Division having conceded just fourteen goals all season.

Reading manager Alan Pardew has been impressed by the difference Upson has made in his time at the club and admits that he expects the 23-year-old will go onto play for England.

Pards admitted that he will do everything in his power to get to the game the day Upson makes his England debut.

"Matthew Upson has undoubtedly got a big future in the game. Personally, when he makes his England debut I'm going to make sure I'm there," wrote Pardew in his programme notes for tomorrow's game.

Meanwhile, Reading's clash with Gillingham at the Madejski Stadium, scheduled for Saturday 8th February has been put back to Monday 10th February, kick off 7.45pm so that it can be shown live on Sky.

Reading's only other live game on Sky so far this season was their opening home game against Sheffield Wednesday, a game the Royals won 2-1.