Mensah signing is an intelligent move, says Sunderland new boy Cana

20 August 2009 19:09
Sunderland new boy Lorik Cana says Steve Bruce's next transfer target will be a hit in the Barclays Premier League. Bruce is closing in on a deal for Lyon defender John Mensah and hopes to have the Ghana international signed before Monday's Carling Cup tie at his former club Norwich City. John Mensah Ghana international John Mensah is set to become Steve Bruce's latest signing at Sunderland Mensah is expected to join Sunderland on a season's loan and will then be available for a £7million fee. Albania captain Cana, who is proving an instant favourite with Sunderland supporters after just two games, played against Mensah regularly in the French league before his £5million move from Marseille. The midfielder said: 'He is a player I know well. I’ve played against him a number of times in the past, and he is someone who has always impressed me when he has been on the other team. He is a very good player who plays in the best team in France, so that has to say something. 'He did not play in all of Lyon’s matches last season, but I don’t think people should read too much into that. Lyon are like the Chelsea or the Manchester United of France, and very few players play every game at those clubs. Lorik Cana Impressive start: Lorik Cana has settled in well to life at the Stadium of Light 'He is a good player and I think he can really help us. He is tall, but he is also quick and strong. I think he has all of the qualities you need to be a successful defender in the Premier League.' Cana is hoping to overcome a hand injury suffered in Tuesday's defeat to Chelsea so he can face Blackburn Rovers at the Stadium of Light on Saturday. The midfielder says he is already feeling at home on Wearside, and his no-nonsense playing style is likely to win him more admirers as the season progresses. Cana added: 'The two games have been totally different because they have been against totally different styles of football. The Bolton game was difficult, but I would say it was a typical British game. It was certainly what I was expecting when I came over from France. 'The Chelsea match was completely different because you are talking about one of the best teams in Europe, maybe the world. I was very impressed by the way Chelsea played. We gave all that we had, but it certainly was not easy. 'I think I am already starting to build up a good relationship with Lee Cattermole. He is my kind of player, he is energetic and always gives 100 per cent. It is still early, but I think we are already starting to do a good job. 'We will have to work at our partnership, and obviously we will have to see how other players fit in as the season goes on. But after the first two matches I am fairly happy with how that side of things has gone.'

Source: Daily_Mail