Position: Defender
Born: 26.11.82
Club: Chievo

John Mensah is one of Ghana's more familiar faces, but after this summer's World Cup he could well be a household name.

This bone-crunching defender is as tough as they come but his experience in European leagues have also helped him become focused and disciplined. He also enjoys getting forward at set-pieces and often poses a goal threat.

However, like many of his fellow Black Stars, Mensah was not at his best during the African Cup of Nations but in the narrow 1-0 defeat to Nigeria, the defender came away with credit having produced several goal-saving tackles.

Mensah played in all but one of Ghana's World Cup qualifying campaign and some would argue without him the Black Stars would have shipped far more than the four goals they conceded in 12 games.

The 23-year-old, who will partner Sammy Kaffour at the heart of the defence this summer, spent the last part of the season in France's Ligue 1 for Rennes, who he joined on loan from Chievo Verona back in February.

Having played in Italy for most of his career, including stints with Genoa, Bologne and Cremonese, Mensah has adapted well in France and he could embark on bigger things next season.

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• 12 Alex Tachie-Mensah
• Prince Tagoe