Dan Ballard
SUN
CB
Controlled Centre Back
Sep 22, 1999 (26)
Right
6'2"
187 lb
SunderlandRanking
Grades
Key Grades
2025/2026 Premier League
Overall Grades by game
2025/2026 Premier League
Upcoming matches
News
Plays in Liverpool friendly
Ballard (ankle) was in the starting lineup for Saturday's friendly match against Liverpool.
Analysis: Ballard made the squad for the practice matchup after completing his recovery from ankle surgery. His return is great news for a squad that benefited from his defensive strength last season, as he ranked second on the team with an average of 6.4 clearances per game. Depending on Omar Alderete's (undisclosed) status, Ballard could start the campaign as part of a center-back pairing alongside Alderete or Luke O'Nien.
Named in squad for US tour
Ballard is named in Sunderland's initial 26 player squad for the club's preseason tour of the United States, the club announced.
Analysis: Ballard is working back from ankle surgery following a red card suspension that brought his previous season to an early end, having been a frequent starter who averaged 6.4 clearances per game, the second highest figure on the team, while also contributing two goals across 29 appearances. Sunderland will face Liverpool, Leeds United and Wrexham across three venues during the trip. His inclusion in the squad points to his recovery being on track after rejoining full training. Ballard is expected to get his first game time of preseason at some point during the US tour.
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