Ghana defensive legend, John Mensah lasted 46 minutes in his debut game for FC Nitra as they lost 1-2 at home to Slovakia league leaders, Slovan Bratislava on Monday. The former Ghana captain who last played for Stade Rennes in the French league in 2012/13, finally made a competitive return to the pitch after joining Nitra a few weeks ago in anticipation of returning to form and gatecrashing the Black Stars team for Brazil 2014.

In an exclusive interview with 90 MINUTES Newspaper after the game, the ex- general captain of the Black Stars spoke of his happiness at bouncing back again, even though he was a bit sluggish in the game which is understandable after almost a year out of action.

“I am very happy to have made my comeback playing at the highest stage again. It has been a while but I am happy with my performance. I want to thank those who have been supporting me and thank God for bringing me this far,” he told 90 MINUTES.

“I am here to help the team do its best in the league. There are a couple of games to go and hopefully, things will turn out good [for me] for both club and country. I just want to keep on doing my best and with God’s guidance, I shall have the best outcome. I know you've heard it a thousand times before. But it's true - hard work pays off. If you want to be good, you have to practice, practice, practice. Football is like life - it requires perseverance, hard work, sacrifice, dedication and respect for authority.”