Career

Matthew Upson started his career with Luton Town before joining Premier League club Arsenal for a fee of £2 million in May 1997. Upson struggled to force his way into the first team at Highbury, making 57 appearances in six seasons, and so spent time on loan at Nottingham Forest, Crystal Palace and Reading.

Matthew joined Birmingham City in 2003, but following the team’s relegation in 2006 he went on to join West Ham United for £7.5 million in January 2007. Upson was made captain in 2009 but at the end of the 2010/11 season West Ham were relegated to the Championship so Matthew signed a two-year contract with Stoke City in August 2011. Upson went to on have a spell with Brighton & Hove Albion, Leicester City and MK Dons before retiring to focus on his coaching and media career.

Matthew Upson now works as a co-commentator and studio analyst for the BBC, Five Live and the Premier League channel.

Motivational Speaker

As a motivational speaker, Matthew Upson shares journey from a normal schoolboy, to playing for England and scoring at the World Cup Finals. Matthew talks on how, through self determination, surrounding yourself with the right team (both in work and outside work), and being able to change and adapt in challenging times you can succeed when you put your mind to it.