There had to be a reason behind the selection of Titus Bramble over Paul Scharner and now we know – with Scharner revealing that he’s fallen out with manager Steve Bruce.

Bruce apparently frowned upon Scharner’s return to the fold for the Austrian national side after the player had set a self-imposed exile for the last two years. Bruce particularly objected to Scharner’s recent involvement against France…

“He said I shouldn’t play against France last month, but I did and he seems to be resentful towards me. I will wait and see what happens,” revealed Scharner today…

The centre back/midfielder is normally a decent fantasy proposition, not least as he is classed as a defender but can be deployed in a central midfield role by Wigan. He also has a proven eye for goal which sees him threaten 4-5 strikes a season. This term however, he’s been frozen out with Bramble taking his place alongside Boyce at the back, whilst in midfield, Cattermole has well and truly sealed the role alongside Palacios.

Scharner’s comments today don’t look good and suggest that he could be looking for a move in January if things don’t improve.

“I’m in a difficult situation at Wigan and not getting on well with Steve Bruce at the moment,” remarked Scharner. “We will have to see how long this state of affairs goes on for”.

Personally, I can’t see Bruce backing down in a hurry, particularly after these reports. That all bodes well for Bramble who is flying with his defensive stats in the Guardian game. In the Fantasy Premier League game meanwhile, Figuroa is still offering value in the Wigan defence, but with Edman closing in on a return, he could face competition for his place very soon.