Bramble 'strenuously denies rape claim': Quinn

Premier League player Titus Bramble “strenuously denies any wrongdoing” after being arrested on suspicion of rape, Sunderland chairman Niall Quinn said tonight.

The defender was questioned at a Newcastle police station after he and his brother Tesfaye were held at a city centre hotel.

Quinn said in a club statement: “This has been a very difficult day for everyone at the football club, no one more so than Titus, who categorically refutes the allegations that have been made against him.”

Quinn's statement added: "He strenuously denies any wrongdoing and will be doing everything within his power to clear his name.

“I as chairman, and the club as a whole, totally support Titus in his efforts and we all hope for a swift conclusion to this matter.”