Bramble released on bail after rape allegation

The 29-year-old Sunderland defender was questioned at a Newcastle police station after he and brother Tesfaye, 30, were arrested at a city centre hotel. A Northumbria Police spokesman said: "Both men have been bailed pending further inquiries." They will answer bail on 2 December.

The Sunderland manager, Steve Bruce, has given his backing to the player. "As far as Titus is concerned, the one thing he wants to do is play football," he said. "He was in training this morning. He is a resilient so-and-so.