Steve Bruce believes Titus Bramble is reaching the peak of his career.

As he prepares for contract talks with the much-maligned central defender, the Wigan Athletic manager said: "When you analyse Titus, I think he was probably too young getting a big move to Newcastle.

"If he went to Newcastle now for £5.5million he would probably be equipped to do it.

"He was everyone's laughing stock. He has always had talent. He is big, strong, powerful and is a good user of the ball.

"The concentration levels have come with age and maturity and the big thing with him is for him to enjoy himself."