John Mensah

Ghana's defender John Mensah was handcuffed and thrown into French police prison cell overnight this week, Ghanasoccernet sources have revealed.

His French club Lyon had said on Monday that he would not be available for Wednesday's Champions League game because of gastroenteritis problems.

But the Ligue 1 champions have made tyre-screeching U-turn by admitting that the Ghana deputy captain was arrested over a misunderstanding because of language problems.

Mensah, who is known for his exemplary conduct, had not committed any driving offence when he was pulled over by the French police officers on Sunday night.

But because the Ghanaian doesn't speak fluent French and didn't understand their queries, he was bundled and held till Monday.

"John Mensah was the victim of an unfortunate incident with police forces on Sunday night but the affair is now closed,” Lyon said in a statement, suggesting neither the club nor the player would file a complaint.

"Police forces admitted the cause of this incident was a misunderstanding with the player, who does not speak French,” the seven-times French champions added.

French police heavy handedness on black youths in Paris led to serious riots in the country last year.