Lyon defender John Mensah has described spending a night in police custody earlier this month as his "worst moment" since arriving in France.

The Ghana international, who spent two years with Rennes before moving to Lyon in the summer, was detained by police for an alleged driving offence on September 14 but was released the next day without charge.

At the time, Lyon issued a statement to explain the incident was complicated by the language barrier between Mensah and the police, saying: "Police forces admitted the cause of the incident was a misunderstanding with the player who does not speak French. The matter is now closed."

However, the 25-year-old admits he has struggled to overcome the experience and says it is affecting his performance on the pitch.

"I was returning to my hotel to eat," Mensah said. "I wasn't speeding or anything. The police asked me to get out of the car but I didn't understand.

"They have treated me like a criminal. It was my worst moment in France.

"As a Christian I am supposed to forgive but it is difficult. All the confidence I have built up since arriving here has disappeared. Against Fiorentina (in the Champions League) I could not play. Even against Le Havre (on Sunday) I did not feel good.

"I wanted to make a complaint but the club and my advisor have advised against it."