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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.