Titus Bramble hopes to return to Sunderland first team

Sunderland defender Titus Bramble has claimed that he will fight to regain a spot as a first-team regular this season.

The 30-year-old had an inconsistent campaign last season due to a host of injuries as well as off-field problems, including being cleared of sexual assault in May.

"The manager [Martin O'Neill] has been fantastic since he has been here," said Bramble. "It's always frustrating to be injured when a new manager comes in, but hopefully when this season comes, I can stake my claim."

Bramble has been at the Stadium of Light since 2010.