Regis Le Bris has ‘clear place to turn’ ahead of Sunderland v Coventry
Sunderland have had a disappointing end to the Championship season and it was topped off by a 1-0 defeat against QPR.
Although Regis Le Bris’ side have had their place in the play-offs secured for some time now, Sunderland are seemingly too comfortable and have seen their form drop.
The Black Cats now prepare to head into their play-off games without a win in six, which does not make for good reading in the North East.
Sunderland boosted by Dan Ballard return
There weren’t many positives for Sunderland to take from their loss against QPR.
Although the Black Cats had the majority of the possession and chances, they failed to do anything with it and ended the season on a poor note.
Supporters made no secret of their disappointment with proceedings as their side went off the pitch and the nerves must be high at the Stadium of Light ahead of crucial games.
| Sunderland’s last six games | |
| QPR (H) | 0-1 |
| Oxford United (A) | 2-0 |
| Blackburn (H) | 0-1 |
| Bristol City (A) | 2-1 |
| Swansea (H) | 0-1 |
| Norwich (A) | 0-0 |
Le Bris was given a reason to smile, though, as Dan Ballard came on as a substitute in the 60th minute, his first game back after being ruled out with a hamstring injury.
It was the defender’s 20th appearance this season, having struggled with injury issues but Sunderland will now have him available for the games against Coventry, which is a massive boost.
Ballard is a boost for Sunderland
With the two biggest games of the season ahead, this is a perfect time for Ballard to return for Sunderland and will be a relief to the boss.
The 25-year-old has been a core part of the defensive set-up at the Stadium of Light and when he plays, always proves to be reliable.
Ballard brings leadership to the team as well as a physicality which has been somewhat missing without him in the team of late.
Furthermore, the boss seems to be in need of some fresh legs in the team, introducing someone who is able to add something new to a team that has looked tired of late.
While the defender’s injuries have been frustrating this season, now is the ideal time to have him fit again and he will be eager to show what he can do.
With a summer transfer move to the Premier League linked with Ballard, if he can show up for the Black Cats in the play-offs, his side may not have to worry so much about losing him.