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.