Source: Daily_Mail
Matthew Upson wants another Manchester United mauling when West Ham face Birmingham
Matthew Upson has called on his West Ham team-mates to conjure up the same spirit which beat Manchester United as they look to take a step closer to Wembley in the first leg of their Carling Cup semi-final against Birmingham at Upton Park. [LNB]The Irons may be fighting for survival after slipping back to the foot of the table, but Avram Grant's men have the chance to put their Barclays Premier League battles to one side when the Blues travel to east London. [LNB]Upson, who played for Birmingham from 2003 to 2007, believes if his team-mates can produce the same form which saw them knock United out with a 4-0 thrashing at the Boleyn Ground on November 30, then there is no reason why they cannot start to dream of a first Wembley appearance in 30 years. [LNB] Battle cry: West Ham skipper Upson is determined to make it to Wembley[LNB]'Not only was it a great result, but it gave a boost to the whole club in every department,' the West Ham captain said. [LNB]'With the way that things are right now, it would be a welcome relief to achieve something in the cup and making the final would be a top achievement.[LNB] 'We need to look back at that Manchester United game. Our attitude was right, we did not let them settle and it is important especially at home that we set off with an aggressive attitude. [LNB]'If we do that we can upset people and get on top and a result.'[LNB] [LNB] Hammered: Carlton Cole scored twice as Manchester United were beaten[LNB]Upson has been linked with a move away from Upton Park, although the England international is putting all thoughts of his own future and potential new deal with West Ham on hold until the summer. [LNB]'Nothing has been done and we will just see how it plays out this season,' he said. [LNB]'The club are in quite a difficult position in terms of assessing where to head in the summer. [LNB]'Obviously a lot depends on their Premier League status and other issues. You can't possibly say what will happen. [LNB]'We spoke but it is in a position that is on hold and we will see how it plays out.'[LNB] Under-fire West Ham boss Avram Grant dismisses fresh talk of the sack from Upton Park hotseatDeserted Grant still game for a laugh ahead of West Ham's semi-final dateClub-by-club guide to every Premier League transfer deal during JanuaryAll the latest West Ham news, features and opinionAll the latest Birmingham news, features and opinion[LNB] Explore more:People: Matthew Upson Places: Birmingham, London, United Kingdom
