Black Stars captain John Mensah's return to Lyon has taken off on the worst possible note after he was sent off in his first pre-season game.

The defender is back at his parent club after spending two seasons on loan at Sunderland and says he would love to stay but only if the chances of first team football are there.

But presented with the first opportunity to press his case, Mensah did not take it, getting sent off after only twenty five minutes in a pre-season game against RB Salzburg in a 0-1 defeat.

Mensah was given a straight red for blocking a goal bound effort with his hand in a goal mouth scramble to prevent the Austrians from doubling their lead.

The red card is unlikely to dampen Mensah's spirits as he looks to settle back in French football.