Page 2 - Ed Upson News Today

Academy midfielder Ed Upson could pick up his first U19 international cap this evening when England take on Belarus in a friendly at Notts Countys Meadow Lane (KO 7.45pm).

Towns reserves are in action this afternoon in a game against a Southern Amateur League representative side at the HSBC Sports Club, Beckenham (KO 3pm).

Towns reserves cantered to an easy 6-0 victory at AFC Sudbury on Tuesday evening. Jordan Rhodes netted a hat-trick, while Dean Bowditch, Jaime Peters and Jack Ainsley were also on the scoresheet.

In the seventh of a series of pre-season reports, HarryFromBath assesses the mood around the Championship clubs by delving into their forums. Brentford, Charlton Athletic and Millwall are under the spotlight in today’s notes.

Exiting defender Alex Bruce says he is targeting another play-off campaign with Leeds this season, having reached the top six with former loan side Leicester last season. Bruce is expected to complete a move to the Elland Road club before the weekend with a fee of £200,000, plus another £100,000 on appearances, having been agreed yesterday.

Towns U18s fell to their first pre-season defeat on Thursday afternoon with a 4-2 loss to Southend United at a windswept Playford Road. Ed Upson and Jordan Rhodes were on the scoresheet for the home side.

Dean Bowditch was the star as Town started their pre-season programme with a 3-0 victory over Bury Town at Ram Meadow. The 22-year-old put in a sharp display scoring the first goal, having another disallowed and striking the cross bar.

Towns U21 side started their pre-season programme by winning the Martin Swallow Memorial Trophy after defeating Bury Town 3-0 at the OCS Ram Meadow Stadium on Saturday afternoon, first-half goals from Nico Valentine, Tete Yengi, and Rio Morgan securing the win.

Bolton Wanderers have confirmed the signing of released Blues keeper Joel Coleman.

Former Town boss Jim Magilton has been appointed the first ever full-time manager of NIFL Premiership side Cliftonville.