Matthew Upson: Brighton & Hove Albion sign former Stoke defender

Brighton & Hove Albion have completed the signing of defender Matthew Upson on a free transfer.

The former England international, who left Stoke City last month, has signed a one-year deal with the Seagulls.

Upson, 34, spent the second half of last season on loan at the Amex Stadium, scoring one goal in 20 appearances for the Championship club.

He began his career at Luton and has also had spells at Arsenal, Birmingham and West Ham.

Brighton's head of football operations David Burke told the club website: "His experience is fantastic and it really shows our intent by bringing in someone of Matt's pedigree.

"It's not like he's a new signing, because he's been with us for almost six months and he knows exactly what we are all about.

"He brings continuity and stability to the defence, which is what we were looking for.

"We finished with the best defensive record in the league and we will build on that for the coming season."