WIGAN boss Steve Bruce believes Titus Bramble is silencing his critics with some top drawer Premier League displays.

Bramble did not have the happiest of times when playing for Newcastle on his move from Ipswich but he's proved an inspired signing for Wigan Athletic.

Bruce has nothing but glowing praise to heap on Bramble's broad shoulders.

The big centre-back's form of late has been exceptional and his goal earned Wigan a vital point on his return to Tyneside last weekend.

Bruce said: "Titus has taken some stick over the years, particularly when he was playing for Newcastle.

"But he was spot on back there last weekend just as he was against Liverpool and at Portsmouth recently.

"He has been terrific of late and it was great to see him score that header.

"We deserved something from the game."

Ribbed

Bruce is quick to point out how it was Sir Bobby Robson who spotted something about Bramble that forced him to splash out and take him to St James' Park.

Bramble's Wigan team-mate Lee Cattermole, who captained Wigan at Newcastle, has been equally complimentary.

He said: "It was absolutely brilliant for Titus to score because he'd obviously got a few jeers from the home fans during the game.

"He had the last laugh, though, and good on him. But we ribbed him in the dressing room. Saying it was a Damien Duff own goal.

"There are some strong characters in our side and we bounced back quickly to equalise. Having gone down to 10 men it was harsh. The referee got it wrong and I think that was clear to see.

"The sending-off of Emerson Boyce was a joke. He'll now miss the Everton game and I'm disappointed. He clearly got the ball when he made the challenge. We have the Respect campaign but the referee has got this one wrong."

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