Former Town manager Sir Bobby Robson says that the deal to take Titus Bramble to Newcastle should be completed by the end of the week. Bramble has agreed terms and all that stands in the way of confirmation is his recovery from a heel operation.

Robson says that nothing will get in the way of the move, with the chairmen of the two clubs having shaken hands on the deal: "It's just been a case of waiting to show the operation was a success.

"It is all agreed. We just didn't rush into laying out the money until it was absolutely guaranteed that Titus was fit. Everybody was happy with that. Ipswich allowed him to train with us which was the best thing all round.

"It was not good him being down there when we needed him up here so we could monitor him."

Robson says he has had his eye on Bramble for some while and is chuffed to have landed him: "Last year was a mixed year for him but I remember the season before he was outstanding.

"He had a couple of injuries last year that didn't help but he is a player we have known about for some time and watched over the last couple of years and we're happy to have him."

The Bramble deal is thought to be worth £5 million now with another million on a set number of appearances and if Bramble gain England caps while at St James' Park.

Photo: Action Images

Ipswich Town Polls