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Upson: Snubbed by Bruce

We now need a win at home in the game against West Ham.

Steve Bruce
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Birmingham manager Steve Bruce does not believe Matthew Upson will play for England again.

Bruce has dismissed Upson's international chances ahead of the former Birmingham centre-back's return to St Andrews with West Ham on Saturday.

Upson quit Birmingham in favour of Upton Park in January when the Blues were chasing Championship promotion and Bruce now feels that it is unlikely the 28-year-old will again reach the heights of his earlier career.

"When asked the question of whether Upson could get back into the England side my honest answer is 'I don't think so'," said Bruce.

"That is not meant to be disrespectful to the player. I think where we are blessed in this country is that we have fantastic central defenders.

"The most important thing for Matt is to remain fit and get over his serious injury.

Positive start

"I think his reception back at Birmingham will be okay although the fans are a hard lot to call.

"I am pleased he has now got himself fit and I watched him last week. I wish him well and hope he stays injury-free to get on with his career.

"He played well for Birmingham and the peak for him was when he got himself into the England set-up."

Meanwhile, Bruce is hopeful that newly promoted Birmingham will continue their positive start to the new Premier League campaign.

"The pleasing point was how we have equipped ourselves in the Premier League so far," Bruce added.

"After the first two games I've been encouraged. Obviously we now need a win at home in the game against West Ham."