Former Ghana skipper Joe Addo has said John Mensah must work his way back into the Black Stars for the World Cup, and not on the basis of his past performances.

Ghanaian football fans are currently divided over the return of the defender for Brazil 2014, with those in favour claiming the current defence lack an experienced person who can control the rear.

But Addo said Mensah, who recently joined Slovakian side Nitra after a year of being without a club must work hard to deserve a slot.

“Just because his name is John Mensah doesn’t warrant him a Black Stars call-up. He has to work for it," Addo told Radio XYZ.

“He has to really perform well at his club and stay fit. And if the coach sees it, he will give him a chance. I have been a key admirer of Mensah because I think he has been the most intelligent of our defenders over the last decade"

Addo added: “We have struggled for stability at the back since he got injured and so if he is fit, I don’t see why he cannot be there. But like I said, he has to work for it."

Ghana coach Kwesi Appiah recently said he would not hesitate in inviting Mensah provided he stays fit and plays an active role at club level.