Ghanaian players have been involved in some high profile transfer moves in Europe ahead of the new season and that has excited stand-in Black Stars captain John Mensah.

The defender, who has also made a big move in the French Ligue 1, joining Olympique Lyon from Rennes, reckons it’s time for Ghanaian players to stake their claim on the big stage in European football.

Beginning with Michael Essien’s extended deal with Chelsea, Asamoah Gyan signing for Rennes, Sulley Muntari’s switch to the Serie A with Inter Milan and himself joining Lyon, John Mensah says it can only be good for the four-time African Champions.

Ghana would also have a fair share of representation in the Champions League with a good number of Black Stars players expected to be involved with some of the big the teams.

Michael Essien, Sulley Muntari, Eric Addo and John Mensah are all assured of Champions League football.

Stephen Appiah, who is expected to make a return to Fenerbache after a long injury, is also a likely candidate for Champions League football.

The lure of Champions League football really excites John Mensah as he say waits to make his debut on the biggest club competition in Europe.

“It is the dream of every footballer to play in the Champions League and I am not different.

“It is an exciting prospect and I am really looking forward to making my debut appearance in the competition,” Mensah told www.ghanafa.org.

However the prospect of playing for the top clubs according to the former Rennes player is an indication of a new era for Ghanaian footballers.

“Ghanaian footballers used to lead the way for other African players to follow in Europe but I think it is our time now.

“There have been very good moves this season involving Ghanaian players this transfer season and this confirms the level of confidence big clubs now repose in Ghanaian players,” the Ghana defender says.

“Essien has renewed his contract which is a sign that he is happy there, Sulley has made a big move to Inter Milan, Asamoah is now at Rennes and I have also moved to Lyon. It is a big statement and I am happy for myself and all my colleagues.

“Like it did for many African countries whose nationals reigned on the big stage in Europe, it will be good for our football.

“It will open the floodgate for more Ghanaian players to come to Europe but first of all, those of us who have the opportunity now should be able to maintain the confidence and trust in us.”

The Ghana defender says it was time to move on to Lyon after having been linked to some English clubs and later Marseille.

“I have been very patient throughout my career and I feel I have made the right decision at the right time.

“It’s a move that really excites me. I am very happy about it,” Mensah said of his Lyon move.

“In life it pays to be patient. I was learning and progressing but I felt it was time to move up.”