Dan Ballard debunks Gabriel myth in stunning new Sunderland reveal
Dan Ballard truly is the man of the moment for Sunderland.
The opening goal and a point-saving block at the death; Ballard did it all for Sunderland in their latest draw with Arsenal at the Stadium of Light.
He is quickly becoming one of the most underrated players in the Premier League, having impressed each time he has stepped onto the pitch.
Ballard has just about everything in his game required to thrive at this level, and he is not getting anywhere near as much attention as he deserves, especially when compared to Gabriel.
Gabriel’s strength is Dan Ballard’s weapon
Surprisingly, Ballard’s goal against Arsenal wasn’t with his head.
Instead, it was a pristine first touch followed by a finish that even the best strikers in the world would take pride in.
With that said, his aerial ability was still on full show against the Gunners, and given the strengths they have showcased from set pieces, it had to be.
Via FotMob, he won five duels in their, with six clearances in the game. Gabriel’s aerial win rate was higher on this occasion, and overall, but Ballard has won two more than the Brazilian this season.
Not only that, but Ballard averages more aerial duel wins than any centre back in the top five leagues other than Tottenham loanee Luka Vuskovic.
Gabriel is often seen as the most aerially dominant defender in world football, and yet Ballard is doing more than enough to demonstrate that may not be the case.
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What Alan Shearer said about Dan Ballard after Arsenal heroics
Alan Shearer has surprisingly been full of praise for Sunderland this season, despite the fact that they are putting his beloved Newcastle to shame with their league performances.
Ballard has often been at the front of that praise, and it was the same when the Black Cats came from behind to secure a point against the Gunners.
When discussing Ballard’s performance on Match of the Day on 8 November, Shearer said: “I think he epitomised everything that Sunderland have done so well, particularly at home this season, with his aggression, with him and his teammates stopping Arsenal playing, particularly in that first half.
“And they are really, really tough to play against. And there were so many examples of that today with him and other players putting their bodies on the line for their team and for the atmosphere.“
He isn’t the only one, but Ballard is certainly making a case to be named in the Premier League Team of the Season.
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