The Blues centre-back is reportedly being targetted by up to seven Premiership side's but Bruce is keen to keep the player who he believes is paramount in helping the club return to The Premiership at the first attempt. "At Southend United, he was the Matt Upson of old. Immense, back to his best," Bruce told the Birmingham Mail. "I've got to be strong enough, we've got to be strong enough, when the transfer window opens. "Matt Upson could be key to getting us to where we want to be. "If the situation stays the same by the summer, and hopefully we are in the Premier League, then we can re-address it.
"In the first half against QPR you could see exactly why he has played seven times for England. He's a very, very good player.
"We can make him an offer he can't refuse."
