Upson ready for Belarus battle

Defender looking to impress in Minsk Matthew Upson is confident he can handle the pressure if called upon by Fabio Capello in Belarus. Upson lined up alongside Rio Ferdinand in the heart of England's defence on Saturday against Kazakhstan. He is expected to keep his place for Wednesday's World Cup qualifier after John Terry was again ruled out with a back injury. Ashley Cole will also miss the clash in Minsk due to a hamstring problem but Upson believes the England squad is capable of coping with such absences and is looking to make the most of his chance. Asked if he had done enough to keep his place, Upson replied on Sky Sports News: "I hope so. I gave it 100 per cent and I have been learning and focusing in the week and I think I am ready to step in. "It is a blow to lose two players like that but I guess it is just a... [read full story]