Ghana defender John Mensah has been praised by Sunderland manager Steve Bruce for his commitment to the Black Cats despite having to play through the pain barrier again for the club in the English Premier League.

The defender is yet to heal completely from a shoulder injury but was on hand to put in an assured performance for the club on Sunday as they took all three points against West Ham at the Stadium of Light.

Mensah has been hailed as ‘special' by Bruce who was left impressed with his side's quality of defending.

"The great thing was the way we defended. Ferdinand had his best game for me in 18 months. I threw the gauntlet down to him and Mensah and they responded. I am delighted with that," Bruce said.

"Mensah put himself on the line with his shoulder. Only special players like him do it. He has a protective harness and is in pain every time it takes a whack."

The Ghanaian however insist that he would battle on to help the team despite still hurting though he continues to receive treatment.

"My shoulder problem is still there but the pain is not like the first time because of the treatment I have had," Mensah revealed.

"The club sent me to a specialist also and that worked well. They are doing the job they are supposed to do to make me fit.

"It's not 100 per cent but I came back to help the team. I am happy to go through the pain. As players it is not up to us to be difficult - we must help the team."