Titus Bramble has conceded that he is "really happy" to have been given a regular run in the Sunderland starting lineup.

The 31-year-old had struggled to force his way into Martin O'Neill's plans during the first half of the season but since the turn of the year he has missed just one match.

Having appeared to have nailed down a spot in the side, the defender has vowed to do all he can to make sure that he continues to feature on a regular basis.

"This is one of the longer runs I've had and I'm really happy to be playing," Bramble told the club's official website. "Every player wants a run in the side and in recent weeks I've been fortunate enough to be able to do that.

"I'm enjoying my football. Everyone wants to be in the team and that's when you're at your happiest."

"You never know if you are going to be in the team from week to week, so it's important to keep working hard in training to make sure of your place. That's why you have to keep impressing in training, so that when the chance comes you're ready for it."

Bramble joined the Black Cats in 2010 from fellow Premier League side Wigan Athletic.