John Boye handed Ghana a massive boost ahead of the 2014 World Cup qualifiers by returning from injury to play in Rennes 2-2 draw with Saint Etienne on Friday night.

There was also good news for Ghana as Black Stars general captain John Mensah also made an injury return by sitting on the bench in the match after recovering from injury.

The Ghana defender returned after missing a game due to abdominal pains to play the full throttle in the home draw.

Boye, 25, was doubtful for the game on Friday night but was nevertheless included in Rennes starting lineup and lasted the entire duration.

The game played at the Stade de la Route de Lorient marked the ex Heart of Lions defender’s triumph over recent injury problems.

Boye went on to put in a solid display and was unlucky to have his goal scored in the opening minutes disallowed for a foul on St Etienne goalkeeper Stephane Ruffier.

His return serves as a massive boost to Ghana as the Black Stars prepare to face Sudan in the crucial 2014 World Cup qualifier on March 24.

Compatriot John Mensah also made a first team return on Friday but was an unused substitute.

The ex-Ghana captain has recovered from a recent injury to claim a spot on the bench but never saw action.