RÉDA Johnson has returned to Argyle after a strange row with his national team.

The young defender was set to join up with the Benin squad for their 2012 African Cup of Nations qualifier against Burundi.

Before boarding the plane, however, Johnson was told by his national coach that the Benin Federation considered him 'undesirable' after Benin's poor showing in the African Cup of Nations last January.

"I've just asked the boy and I think the coach has had a word with him to say don't come," said Argyle manager Peter Reid.

"That is my understanding and I find it a little strange. It's a pleasant surprise for me but he doesn't seem overly concerned."

The saga completes a strange week for Réda, who was given the Argyle captaincy in the absence of Carl Fletcher against Peterborough on Saturday.

"He's got pace and he's very commanding, if he keeps it simple," said Reid. "He did try a drag-back in the final third [against Peterborough], which is not good for my heart and the supporters.

"He is still learning and so is [Bondz] N'Gala. It's a hard place to learn but he [Réda] has got great qualities, and he will get better."