SUNDERLAND defender John Mensah has declared himself injury-free for the first time since arriving at the Stadium of Light last summer.

And now the Ghana international wants to go from crock of gold to Steve Bruce’s golden boy in his second season on loan from Lyon with the Black Cats.

Mensah, 27, has been outstanding whenever he has pulled on the red and white shirt but spinal trouble, which caused persistent muscle and hamstring problems, has meant he has spent as much time on the treatment table as out on the pitch.

It looked like the same old story when he tore a hamstring in Sunderland’s opening-day draw against Birmingham - but that injury was not connected and he is expected to return at Wigan on Saturday.

And Mensah, compatriot and big pal of Sunderland’s record signing Asamoah Gyan, expects a lengthy run in the first team.

“I will not be troubled by my old problems any more,” he said.

“If the boss wants me to play in every game, I will do so.

“I am now getting special treatment at Sunderland like I had during the World Cup.

“I am confident I will play every match for the rest of the season.”

Mensah rarely trains with his team-mates, instead using the gym and swimming pool.

And having brought his own personal physio with him to Sunderland, he feels things are looking up.

“I had special treatment during the World Cup and it made a big difference.

“If I follow that same programme I know I will be okay.”