I’m a former Premier League star who became an Evangelist – I’m keeping myself in church all the time

Former Premier League star John Mensah has swapped penalties for pulpits … by becoming an EVANGELIST.

The ex-Ghana international captain spent two top-flight seasons on loan to Sunderland between 2009 and 2011.

PA:Empics SportFormer Premier League star John Mensah became an Evangelist[/caption]

EPAThe ex-Ghana captain spent two top-flight seasons on loan to Sunderland between 2009 and 2011[/caption]

Centre-back Mensah made 35 Black Cats appearances, scoring once against Manchester City, before rejoining parent club Lyon.

He shone at two World Cups, and his other clubs included Genoa and Rennes.

Mensah, 41, hung up his boots in 2016 after a spell with Swedish side AFC Eskilstuna.

He has since kept a low profile, devoting himself to spreading the gospel at a church at Kasoa near Ghana’s capital Accra.

Mensah told home-country media: “My church is the Resurrection Power New Generation Church. I’m just worshipping there.

“But I keep my faith in God Almighty to worship Him well, advise my people, and do evangelism to help others know God very well.

“I’m just keeping myself in the church all the time.

“Since I am no longer on the field, that’s how I’m keeping myself cool.

“Having retired from the game, I think it is time to spread the word of God to others.”

Mensah won 86 caps for Ghana’s Black Stars, appearing at the 2006 and 2010 World Cup finals.

Sunderland fans ranked him among the club’s best Premier League defenders of recent times.

However, then-boss Steve Bruce declined the option to sign him on a permanent deal amid concerns about Mensah’s injury record.