Dan Ballard signs new Sunderland contract: Here’s what he has said about it
Dan Ballard has shared his delight after signing a new Sunderland contract.
The centre-back was deservedly awarded a new deal after impressing in the Premier League this season, and has committed his future to the Stadium of Light until 2029.
Ballard has made 114 appearances for the Mackems since joining from Arsenal in June 2022 and helped his side keep eight clean sheets in the top-flight to date.
He is nothing short of a hero on Wearside, having also scored the dramatic injury-time winner against Coventry in last campaign’s play-off semi-final.
It is no wonder, then, that he wants to stay at Sunderland for many years to come.
- Read more: Dan Ballard’s excellence highlighted once again as he leads fantastic Premier League stat
Ballard admits new Sunderland deal was ‘easy’ decision
Sunderland were unsurprisingly determined to reward Ballard with his fresh terms, primarily to signal a statement of intent under Regis Le Bris.
The decision will also help the Mackems stave off potential interest in the 26-year-old, who simply hasn’t put a foot wrong in the Premier League so far.
Reacting to the news of his extension, Ballard told Sunderland’s official website: “I’m absolutely delighted to have signed a new contract.
“From the moment we began talks, it felt like an easy decision, and I’m happy to be extending my time at the Club.
“Achieving promotion last season was incredible, and I feel very fortunate to have played a part in some special moments in the club’s recent history.
“My aim this season was to stay in the team, compete every day, and keep working hard to contribute. Hopefully, I can continue improving and help drive the club forward for many years to come.”
Ballard has been nothing short of outstanding for Sunderland this season and deserves this recognition, with his big performances helping them pull clear of the relegation dogfight.
Ballard is Sunderland’s not-so-secret weapon
The rock-solid stalwart boasts impressive defensive numbers.
- He has won 62 per cent of his total duels this season.
- Ballard has also won 66 per cent of his ground duels.
- He is just as strong in the air, winning 59 per cent of aerial duels.
However, his efforts at the other end of the pitch should not be forgotten. In fact, he could be labelled Sunderland’s not-so-secret weapon.
Just try stopping him, though. Ballard boasts two goals and two assists in the Premier League so far this campaign, and has typically caused havoc at set-pieces.
According to Sofascore, his expected goals total stands at 2.32, suggesting he has taken his chances when they have come his way, while he averages 0.4 shots on target per game.
This, combined with the fact that he has missed seven big chances, shows just how important he is at crashing the box and helping Sunderland compete physically in the top-flight.
Now, having put pen to paper on his new contract, he will hope for yet more success at the pinnacle of the English game.
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