Bramble Signs For Wigan

Last updated : 04 June 2007 By Footy Mad - Editor
Allardyce made it known "early doors" he didn't want to take a gamble on the ex-Ipswich favourite and now Wigan have completed the signing of the former Newcastle defender on a free transfer.

The 25-year-old becomes manager Chris Hutchings' first signing since succeeding Paul Jewell at the JJB and joins on a three-year contract.

Bramble joined Newcastle from Ipswich in 2002, making 105 appearances for the Magpies.

Sir Bobby Robson signed him for £5m and stuck by him even though he had a poor start at the club. Graeme Souness once said Bramble would be an England international before he was 25. And Glenn Roeder was another who believed he could knock the player into shape. All three suffered because of their loyalty to him.

Bramble, who was linked with a number of other Premiership clubs upon his release, will join up with his new team-mates for pre-season training at the end of the month.
 
The defender earned 12 England Under-21 caps between 2000 and 2002.