Titus Bramble improved in spades last season and he is backed to get even better this term by Wigan chairman Dave Whelan.

The former Newcastle United defender has been an easy scapegoat in the past but his inspirational performances for the Latics in 2008/09 forced critics to see a different side and impressed Whelan to boot.

"Titus really feels at home at Wigan and has proved to be a good signing," Whelan said.

"The lad is a good player and was a real rock at the back for us last season."

Bramble himself added: "People tend to say it's not about results at this time of the year but you always want to win. Winning games puts a smile on your face.

"Of course it's about getting games under your belt but we really need to be beating teams like Norwich to get some confidence going into the season.

"We were disappointed with the goals we conceded at Norwich because we've been working on things in training.

"We have to get them right but I don't think we're that far off. Positives did come from Saturday's game, particularly the goals we scored."