Sunderland boss Steve Bruce hails John Mensah for role in Black Cats' recent improvement

Manager says defender is a 'top-class act'

16 Mar 2010 14:45:00

By Richard Evans

More On :  Sunderland, John Mensah
John Mensah of Ghana(cholgyu

Sunderland boss Steve Bruce has paid tribute to John Mensah's role in his side's recent improvement.

The Black Cats have lifted themselves seven points clear of the relegation zone, having lost just one of their last seven Premier League encounters.

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The Ghana international defender has played a significant role in the last four games as the Sunderland back four has become more settled.  

Mensah made only his 13th appearance for the club in Sunday's 1-1 draw with Manchester City as he has been plagued by a series of niggling injuries linked to a back condition.

The condition is so severe that he is rarely available to train for the Wearside club.

The defender has already gained praise from team-mate Craig Gordon and his boss has now offered further applause.

According to Sky Sports, Bruce said: "He is a top, top-class act, the kid.

"You just have to watch him once or twice. How he does it week in, week out is beyond me.

"You have to be an exceptionally talented footballer to do what he does because he only trains on a Friday.

"The rest of the time it is bikes and pools and massages and just nursing him through from one week to the next.

"But he is such a good natural athlete that he gets away with it."

Sunderland have the option to make Mensah's loan deal from Lyon permanent at the end of the current campaign.

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