Arsenal fans all say same thing about Dan Ballard after Sunderland play-off heroics
Sunderland reached the Championship play-off final in the most dramatic circumstances against Coventry City, and they have Dan Ballard to thank.
Ballard headed in a last-minute winner to cause bedlam at the Stadium of Light as they beat Coventry 3-2 on aggregate in their semi-final tie.
Sunderland will now face Sheffield United in the play-off final at Wembley, full of belief that they can pull off another unexpected result to return to the Premier League.
The Black Cats were without Ballard since February until the final day of the season, and it is now clear how important he is for Regis Le Bris.
Arsenal fans praise Ballard after play-off goal
Ballard joined Sunderland from Premier League side Arsenal in 2022 and has since made 88 appearances, but his winner against Coventry was the best moment of his career to date.
With Ballard wowing the footballing world with his incredible header, Arsenal fans have now taken to X to praise their former academy graduate as he thrives with Sunderland.
Ballard fulfilling potential at Sunderland
Ballard was highly rated within the Arsenal academy, but injuries and stiff competition held him back from progressing in North London.
After a tough few years in which he struggled for consistent minutes as a result of injuries, Ballard has now had his crowning moment, and there is plenty more to come.
The 25-year-old was already a full Northern Ireland international as a youngster despite never making his Arsenal debut, but he is now fulfilling his potential.
Many believed that he could become a Premier League-level player when he came through the ranks at Hale End, and he now has the chance to lead Sunderland there and reach the top flight.
Over both legs, Ballard was the best player as an imperious rock at the back, while also making the key difference in the vital moments.
Sunderland’s form dropped massively in recent months after they secured a play-off spot, and it is no coincidence that this also came when Ballard was absent.