Sunderland suspend Bramble - Club to hold investigation following defender's arrest

Bramble: Sunderland defender has been suspended by the club

Sunderland defender Titus Bramble has been suspended by the club as they hold an investigation following his arrest on Wednesday.

Titus Bramble was released on bail after being arrested on suspicion of sexual assault and possession of a class A drug.

The former Ipswich, Newcastle and Wigan player was held for questioning by Cleveland Police following an incident in the early hours of Wednesday.

A spokesperson told the club's official website: "Sunderland AFC has confirmed that Titus Bramble has been suspended from duties, pending the outcome of a club investigation.

"The player will not attend team training or be available for selection for matches during this period.

"The club is unable to make any further comment on the matter at present."

Unavailable

As a result of his suspension, Bramble will be unavailable for Saturday's Premier League clash with West Brom at the Stadium of Light.

The centre-back played in the Black Cats' 2-1 defeat at Norwich on Monday evening which saw Steve Bruce's men fail to build upon their 4-0 victory over Stoke the previous weekend, their first win of the campaign.

His place could be taken against the Baggies by Michael Turner, who is fit again after a knee injury.

Bramble's unavailability comes at a time when Bruce could do with all his experienced players at his disposal with the club needing a win to relieve the pressure which has been heaped upon them once again in the wake of their defeat at Carrow Road.