WENGER BIG ADMIRER OF BRAMBLE

ARSENAL manager Arsene Wenger has reportedly admitted that he is a big admirer of Ipswich Town defender Titus Bramble, the player who impressed many people with his display against The Gunners last month.

The young Ipswich stopper did an excellent job of marking French international Thierry Henry in the match at Portman Road and was instrumental in securing a 1-1 draw for George Burley's side.

The 19-year-old spent a month on loan at Second Division Colchester United last season, before returning to the Suffolk club to become a first team regular in the current Premiership campaign.

The England Under 21 international's performances in the Premiership this season have already had many people tipping him for full international honours in the future.

With Tony Adams and Martin Keown coming to the end of their playing careers in the next few years, Wenger is believed to be targeting the cream of the young defensive talent from throughout Europe, but he may be disappointed if he is planning to launch a bid for Bramble in the near future.

The young defender is set to sign a new five-year deal at Ipswich, his local team, and Town boss Burley is unlikely to sell the player anytime soon, as he looks to establish Ipswich in the Premiership this season.

Meanwhile, Bramble's fellow Ipswich defender Wayne Brown has again been linked with a move to First Division duo Wimbledon and Stockport County. The 23-year-old has made just one appearance for Town this season, coming on as a 75th minute substitute in the Premiership match against Tottenham on the opening day of the season.