Sunderland's manager, Steve Bruce, ready to turn to on-bail Titus Bramble

Steve Bruce said today that he would have no qualms about playing Titus Bramble at Liverpool on Saturday after the Sunderland defender's arrest and subsequent bailing on suspicion of rape. With Anton Ferdinand, John Mensah, Michael Turner and Kieran Richardson sidelined by injury, the former Newcastle and Wigan centre-half will form part of a patched up visiting defence. "As far as Titus is concerned, the only thing he wants to do is play football," said Sunderland's manager. "He was back in training this morning." Bruce, who has allowed the Northern Ireland left‑back George McCartney to join Leeds United on loan, will also welcome back his captain, Lee Cattermole, at Anfield. The midfielder served a two-match suspension after being sent off twice in three games but Bruce confirmed that he will keep the captaincy. "Long term, Sunderland football club will benefit from Lee Cattermole being our captain," Bruce said.