SUNDERLAND footballer Titus Bramble has been charged with two counts of sexual assault after a second complaint to police.

The 30-year-old Premiership defender, who had a previous spell at rival team Newcastle, was arrested in Yarm, near Stockton, on Wednesday, September 28, on suspicion of sexual assault and possession of a Class A drug.

It emerged yesterday that he was re-arrested on Friday, October 14, on suspicion of another sexual assault, after a second allegation was made to police.

The player’s lawyer said he “vehemently denies” the allegations.

A police statement yesterday said: “A 30-year-old man from Wynyard has been charged by police with two counts of sexual assault and urinating in a public place and will appear at Teesside Magistrates’ Court on November 10.” Police said no action would be taken concerning the drug allegation.

Last night, Mr Bramble’s lawyer, Phil Smith, from Tuckers Solicitors, based in London, said: “My client vehemently denies these charges and will be vigorously contesting them.”

The centre-half ’s career started at his home town club, Ipswich, before he moved to Newcastle United under Sir Bobby Robson for £6m.

He joined Wigan Athletic, then moved back to the North- East with Sunderland last year, where he was reunited with former Wigan boss Steve Bruce.

The Premier League player was suspended from his team after the allegations against him surfaced.

A club spokesman said: “Titus Bramble is training independently at present and is not involved in any first team duties. This will remain the case pending the outcome of club investigations.”