Everything the media has said about star Sunderland duo Trai Hume and Dan Ballard vs Germany
Sunderland are back in action against Wolves on Saturday evening.
There’s a good possibility Le Bris’ men will extend their unbeaten run at the Stadium of Light, as Sunderland are favourites to beat Wolves.
Wilson Isidor has been on fire during Sunderland’s home games, as the Mackems will also be pleased to hear of Granit Xhaka’s impressive performances away from Wearside.
Defenders Trai Hume and Dan Ballard both featured in Northern Ireland’s 1-0 defeat to Germany in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, as the local media weighed in on the Sunderland duo.
Trai Hume’s ‘crucial energy’ impressed as Dan Ballard wowed Northern Irish media
Hume and Ballard were big reasons for Sunderland’s return to the Premier League last season.
The pair have already shown their capabilities of playing at England’s highest level, but will be disappointed in their country’s loss to Germany.
The outlet Belfast News Letter seemed impressed with Hume, “As expected against possession-heavy visitors, crucial concentration and energy to help along backline.” – (6/10) rating.
As they also shared promising words on Ballard, “Had the ball in the net but denied by offside flag, comfortable on the ball and proved commanding at the back with strength and leadership.” – (8/10) rating.
- Hume and Ballard played the whole game for Northern Ireland
- Hume played the right side of three centre-backs
- Ballard featured as the central centre-back in a 5-4-1
Belfast Live also weighed in on the duo, “Got the armband back and led by example all night,” with a (8/10) rating for Hume.
As the Northern Irish media outlet also commented on centre-back Ballard, “Constant threat in the Germany box.” – (8/10) rating.
After Hume and Ballard impressed away from Sunderland, one truth appears even clearer for Le Bris.
Hume and Ballard need to start vs Wolves
Sunderland’s game against Wolves may be looked back on as a pivotal moment come the end of the season, and Le Bris needs to field his best team.
Ballard has proven his importance for Sunderland, but he has struggled for a starting spot since picking up an injury against West Ham earlier in the season.
| Position | Team | Points |
| 7th | Sunderland | 11 |
| 20th | Wolves | 2 |
Hume, on the other hand, has been a no-brainer pick for Le Bris every week, and both men performing at an international level against opponents like Germany can only be a good thing for the Black Cats.
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