Source: Team_Talk
Upson relishing Stoke challenge
Matthew Upson knows he faces a fight for a regular first-team spot but says the level of competition at Stoke formed part of its appeal.[LNB] Centre-back Upson joined the Potters on a free transfer earlier this week after his deal at West Ham expired, penning a two-year contract at the Britannia Stadium. [LNB]The 32-year-old will have to battle established stoppers Robert Huth and Ryan Shawcross for a place in Tony Pulis' side this term, as well as fellow new recruit Jonathan Woodgate. [LNB]But the former England defender says part of Stoke's lure was the competitive nature of the squad. [LNB]"You're gonna have your work cut out to get a place in the team," Upson told Sky Sports News.[LNB]"That's an attractive thing about the club in a way, they've got great competition in that area. It's a test for myself."[LNB]Upson feels there will be no shortage of chances for him to prove his worth, particularly with Stoke competing in the Europa League this season. [LNB]He added: "One thing I will say is that there are plenty of games, with the European league. You've got your FA Cup ties, the League Cup, so there's plenty of games this season."[LNB]Upson, who joins Stoke on the back of a four-year stint at Upton Park, says he expects his stay at the club to be long-term.[LNB]Asked if he could end his career at the Britannia, he replied: "Who knows? It was important and I really had a desire to maintain a Premier League status and play in the Premier League.[LNB]"I don't tend to jump about from here to there. I sign a contract and generally see it through. I hope to do that here as well."[LNB]The defender suffered relegation from the top-flight with the Hammers last season but is keen to put that disappointment behind him. [LNB]"It was very tough times. A very disappointing season all round," he added. [LNB]"But you have to put that behind you as a player and try and move on and move to the future, which for me is at Stoke City, and I'm looking forward to that."
