Bruce - Bramble the real deal Previously maligned defender hailed by manager

Wigan Athletic boss Steve Bruce has hailed the form of Titus Bramble, labelling the defender the 'real deal'.

Former Newcastle United centre-back Bramble has come in for criticism in the past following a number of high-profile mistakes.

However, the 27-year-old has impressed of late, helping the Latics to three clean sheets in their previous four games.

Bruce said in the Daily Mirror: "I had to get after him at times, I dropped him and was constantly at him.

"We kept on at him about concentrating and keeping it simple. He's done that.

"You get better with age when you are a centre-half, you know where to stand and you're not as rash.

"Titus now looks the real deal everyone thought he could be. He's worked really hard."