Pompey Chasing Upson

Last updated : 12 December 2002 By Rob Cooper
Matthew Upson in action for Reading against Portsmouth last weekend.
MAtthew Upson in action for Reading against Portsmouth last weekend.
Matthew Upson could be playing First Division football in the not-too-distant future if Harry Redknapp's bid to lure him to Pompey is successful.

Upson returned to Arsenal last weekend after spending three highly productive months with the Royals. It seems Redknapp noticed the impact that the 23-year-old has had on the Reading first team and is seeking to capitalise on the rule that prevented the Royals for keeping him for the whole season.

Ironically, Upson's loan spell with the Royals ended with last Saturday with a game against Portsmouth.

It is understood that the South Coast side want Upson on an intial three month loan spell with a view to a permanent transfer should they get promoted.

Speaking to Portsmouth's local newspaper 'The News' Redknapp admitted his desire to bring in Upson:"He's a left-sided central defender, a quality player with a good left foot. He can play in the Premiership easily. He's the type of kid to get you out of this division."

Upson had promised Royals fans that he wouldn't sign for another First Division club but after failing to even make the subs bench for Arsenal's Champions League tie with Valencia he may be tempted to join Pompey in order to play some more first team football.

It is rumoured that Portsmouth Chairman Milan Mandric was at Highbury on Tuesday apparently in discussions with Arsenal vice chairman David Dein in an attempt to agree a deal for Upson.