Dan Ballard
SUN
Center Back
Controlled Center Back
Sep 22, 1999 (27)
Right
6'2"
187 lb
Ranking
Grades
Key Grades
2026/2027 Premier League
Overall Grades by game
2026/2027 Premier League
Upcoming matches
News
Out until after international break
Ballard (hamstring) remains sidelined and is not expected to return until after the November international break at the earliest, according to Chris Fryatt of the Sunderland Echo.
Analysis: Ballard is facing an extended spell on the sidelines after sustaining a hamstring injury while representing Northern Ireland during September's international break. The center-back suffered the injury during a Sept. 25 victory over Georgia and subsequently returned to Sunderland to begin his rehabilitation. Although coach Regis Le Bris initially indicated that Ballard would miss a few weeks, the latest update suggests he will remain unavailable until at least the conclusion of the November international break, ruling him out of several additional Premier League fixtures. His continued absence represents a significant blow to Sunderland's defensive setup, as he was averaging 6.2 clearances and 2.0 tackles per game before suffering the injury. Omar Alderete and Kevin Danso should continue handling central defensive responsibilities in his absence, while Ballard works toward regaining full fitness.
Facing several weeks out
Ballard will be sidelined for a few weeks after suffering a hamstring injury while on international duty with Northern Ireland, according to coach Regis Le Bris. "He will be sidelined for a few weeks."
Analysis: Ballard sustained the injury during Northern Ireland's Sept. 25 win over Georgia and subsequently returned to Sunderland to begin his recovery. Manager Le Bris' latest update confirms the center-back is facing a multiweek absence, ruling him out of the upcoming Premier League fixtures. His absence represents a significant blow to Sunderland's back line, as Ballard was averaging 6.2 clearances and 2.0 tackles per game before the injury. Omar Alderete and Kevin Danso are expected to take on increased responsibilities in central defense until Ballard returns.
Explore more players
Jan Paul van Hecke
TOT• #6• CB
Jérémy Jacquet
LIV• #5• CB
Neco Williams
NFO• #3• LWB
Marc Guéhi
MCI• #6• CBSelect Player
Search and select a player to compare