Former Suffolk schoolboy Matthew Upson will start at the heart of England’s defence in their crucial World Cup match with Slovenia on Wednesday.
The 31-year-old, who attended Hartismere High School, near Eye, is set to partner John Terry in central defence as the much-maligned national team seek the victory which would secure them a place in the second round.
It comes as first-choice Ledley King battles injury and his replacement Jamie Carragher is suspended.
Upson, who has yet to play in the tournament, played for Whitton United in Ipswich in a youth team which also featured future England and Town stars Richard Wright and Kieron Dyer.
He went on to play with Wright in the Premier League at Arsenal and West Ham.
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