Ghanaian defender John Mensah returned to the Sunderland starting line-up on Saturday to help them defeat high-flying Arsenal 1-0.
Mensah, who has been out of action since September 27, slotted in at the heart of the defence, despite the availability of Anton Ferdinand and Nyron Nosworthy.
It is a bit of a snub to Ferdinand in particular, who would have expected to partner Paulo Da Silva in the absence of Michael Turner.
The decision by coach Steve Bruce further enhances Mensah’s reputation as one of the best defenders around.
He was replaced by Ferdinand in the 82nd minute as they sealed the win over the high-scoring side.
Mensah availability will please Ghana coach Milovan Rajevac, who is keen to have his deputy captain fit for the African Cup of Nations in January.
