Sunderland manager Martin O'Neill believes that defender Titus Bramble still has enough quality to help the Black Cats move up the Premier League table.

The 31-year-old, who has recently been plagued by injuries and off-field problems, is expected to line up in the back four for this weekend's trip to West Ham United.

"Until I got here, I didn't quite realise how much potential he has," said O'Neill. "I remember Sir Bobby speaking about him. He would wax lyrical about this young kid and I can see why. I still see those things with Titus but his major problem is staying fit."

Bramble is currently in the final year of his contract.