Nigel Pearson is optimistic that he could have Matthew Upson available to make his Leicester City debut before Christmas.

The former England international defender joined the Foxes on a free transfer in the summer, but has yet to feature this season because of a foot injury.

The 35-year-old is recovering from surgery and Pearson hopes that he will soon be fit enough to play for Leicester's Under-21 side in order to put himself in the first-team picture for the festive fixtures.

Pearson told the club's official website: "He is doing very well, and hopefully he will play some part in a competitive game in the next month.

"That means he may be in contention for the first team before Christmas, which would be fantastic for us. He has a wealth of experience and know how. I am looking forward to having him available."

Upson has clocked up nearly 300 Premier League appearances while at Arsenal, Birmingham City, West Ham United and Stoke City, and most recently spent two seasons at Brighton & Hove Albion.