Chris Hutchings Says Toon Critics Were Wrong!

Last updated : 06 September 2007 By Footy Mad - Editor

Wigan seem to be very happy with the player we once dubbed as "the man who gets Newcastle managers the sack".

Sir Bobby bought him for a lot of money and tried to prove his judgement was right, even though Bramble put in some horror performances.

Graeme Souness was another who believed "the next game will be better from him", as did Glenn Roeder.

All three went down the rocky road, and although we cannot blame Bramble for all of it ... certainly 10% at least.

The Wigan website: "Without Bramble on Saturday, Latics could have been hit for six.

"He kept Michael Owen at bay for 87 minutes, before he pulled onto Emmerson Boyce to net the winner.

"Bramble spent five unsuccessful years with the Magpies following his £5m move from Ipswich.

"He was blamed for their exit from last season's UEFA Cup at AZ Alkmaar in March by former boss Glenn Roeder.

"The Geordie fans booed his name when it was read out before kick off, while he was jeered when the action got underway.

"But the defender, who turns 26 this Thursday, rose above the frosty reception with his best performance in a Wigan shirt."

Chris Hutchings: "It was probably his best game so far.

"I didn't think he had a point to prove going back to Newcastle.

"He's an excellent player and I was delighted with his performance. We need a few more performances like that from him.

"I think the criticism of Titus is unfair.

"But it will make him a stronger and better person and a better player. He's got to have belief. We've got big belief in him.

"Bobby Robson spent big money on him and he's not a bad judge of a player."

Let's see what they say in May when they fighting relegation!