Steve Bruce has hailed his Wigan Athletic Football Club defender Titus Bramble.

The 27-year-old was ridiculed during his time for Newcastle United for a number of high-profile errors, but he has found his best form under Bruce at the JJB Stadium.

"He was everyone's laughing stock," admitted the Latics boss. "When you analyse Titus, I think he was probably too young getting a big move to Newcastle United.

"If he went to Newcastle now for £5.5million he would probably be equipped to do it. He has always had talent. He is big, strong, powerful and is a good user of the ball.

"Central defenders get better with age and it is about being in the right position, not making mistakes and, most importantly, concentration, and Titus has improved unbelievably."