England v Slovenia news - Fabio Capello confirms starting spot for Matthew Upson
Matthew Upson(credit:
Wikipedia)
England coach Fabio Capello has confirmed Matthew Upson will start Wednesday’s must-win group clash against Slovenia.
With Ledley King injured and Jamie Carragher suspended, Capello has opted for the West Ham defender ahead of uncapped Tottenham man Michael Dawson.
Capello told the BBC: “Upson will play because he has always played with John Terry, and I probably changes some others.”
The decision will no doubt upset former Manchester United and England full-back Paul Parker, who has already questioned Capello’s decision to select Upson ahead of Dawson in his initial 23-man squad.
“Michael Dawson was playing well for his club at the end of the season,” Parker told bookmaker Betfred.
“Yet he picked Upson who just hasn't been playing well.”
The Three Lions must win the game to have any hope of reaching the last 16 of the competition, and are 1/2 with SkyBet, Boylesports, Betfred and William Hill to get the three points. Paddy Power offer 7/1 on Slovenia dumping England out with a victory, while the draw is 10/3 (Bet365, Betfred, Victor Chandler, bodog, Ladbrokes, Coral).
Wednesday's match kicks off 15.00 BST, live on BBC One and bbc.co.uk.