Curbishley's delight

Alan Curbishley says he was 'delighted' at Matthew Upson's inclusion in Fabio Capello''s first England team.

The Hammers centre-half played a full 90 minutes last night as Capello's reign got off to a perfect start with a 2-1 win over 2008 European Championship joint hosts Switzerland.

Despite making one or two minor errors Upson's performance was generally faultless - and club manager Curbishley says he couldn't be happier for a player he signed from this weekend's opponents Birmingham a year ago.

"Matthy's worked every so hard since he's been at the club," said Curbishley this morning. "I'm delighted for him.

"He came this time last year and got injured straight away but worked hard over the summer and has played every game. He has now got his just reward because he has been very consistent.

"He has got himself extremely fit and he is very professional on and off the pitch. He has been given the opportunity [by Capello] and will do his utmost to stay in there."

Upson's appearance in the new-look England side was his eighth run-out for the national team - and his first in three years.