But the dust settled, and there became another angle to the story.
The fact the Geordies were pleased to see the back of him - and he started to put in some decent performances in red and white - the 'Great Unwashed' suddenly started to take him to their hearts.
Sunderland's Nedum Onuoha has praised Bramble’s performances since his summer move from Wigan, claiming the previously-maligned defender has been Sunderland’s “best player” in the opening nine matches of the season.
Nedum Onuoha: “I have never played with Titus before.
“He has grown into the position quickly and has probably been our best player.
“He is one of the main reasons why we have kept clean sheets and conceded so few goals. I am really happy to be playing alongside him because he is so consistent. He is great to play alongside.”