Bramble to miss rest of the season

TITUS BRAMBLE could be out for the rest of the season after suffering a fresh injury set-back.

Sunderland’s crocked defender hasn’t figured since picking up a nasty Achilles problem on Boxing Day.

The 30-year-old was forced to shelve his comeback last month after breaking down.

And the former Newcastle centre-back is now facing at least another month on the sidelines after having the injury put in a protective boot for the next three weeks.

Black Cats boss Martin O’neill revealed: “Titus has put a boot on it now and that’s going to keep him out of action for a few weeks, so it’s a real setback.”

Ryan Noble is set for a loan switch to Hartlepool.

The Black Cats’ North-east neighbours want the 20-year-old, who has a hatful of goals this season for the reserves.