Bramble: 'I Was The Scapegoat At St James Park'!

Last updated : 01 October 2007 By Footy Mad - Editor

The Wigan defender failed to live up to his £5million price tag paid by Newcastle following his move from Ipswich.

But Bramble's performances for Chris Hutchings, have had the Wigan manager talking about the defender joining Emile Heskey in the England setup.

Bramble: "I needed the move away, and with such great boys at this club, it's been easy for me to settle in.

"I know I was often criticised when I was at Newcastle. At times I thought it was fair, but at others I thought they were looking for a scapegoat, and that was me.

"I was big enough to take it, but I was glad to move and now I am playing every week, whereas at Newcastle I was in for a few games and then out for a few.

"Playing week in week out is something every footballer needs for consistency, and I think my performances are reflected in that.

"Against Liverpool, that was one of my best since I joined Wigan, but then as a team we were outstanding.

"We've done well all season, and against Liverpool we showed the spirit we have in the team because to match them was fantastic. We deserved a point at least.

"As long as we continue to play the way we did on Saturday, then we will win more games than we lose.

"I'm not really thinking about an England call-up.

"I've seen what Emile's done, and he's a fantastic player, he has been all his career.

"He has proven that by getting back into the England squad, so well done to him.

"But I just want to play regularly for Wigan, which is my bread and butter."