Regis Le Bris shares positive Dan Ballard injury update ahead of Crystal Palace
Sunderland made the perfect start to life in the Premier League, and that was largely thanks to Dan Ballard.
Ballard was at his best against West Ham in the opening game of the season, delivering a goal and a man-of-the-match performance.
However, Regis Le Bris’ men suffered a 2-0 defeat to Burnley, with the centre-back going off in the early stages.
The Northern Ireland international has been absent since, but Le Bris has shared some positive news ahead of the Crystal Palace clash.
Regis Le Bris confirms when Dan Ballard will be back
Sunderland travel to Crystal Palace for their second away trip of the Premier League and will be eyeing a third win from four.
Indeed, if the Wearsiders are triumphant, then it will be the first time in their history that they have beaten the Eagles in four successive matches away from home.
- Palace are unbeaten this season
- Sunderland won the last clash 4-0 in 2017
- The Black Cats have only lost two of their last seven to the Eagles
Furthermore, Sunderland could emulate Bolton Wanderers, who were the last promoted team to win three of their opening four top-flight games.
Le Bris is expected to make minimal changes to the team that defeated the Bees, and has now addressed the fitness of Ballard.
“Probably for Aston Villa,” the manager said when asked about when the centre-back could return.
The Black Cats will host Villa at the Stadium of Light the following weekend after they face the Eagles this Saturday.
Read more: Sunderland fans will be delighted at Premier League announcement for Crystal Palace clash
What does Dan Ballard’s injury mean for Sunderland?
Although the defender’s absence against Palace will be a blow, the Wearsiders coped just fine without him against Brentford.
Indeed, Omar Alderete and Nordi Mukiele did a stellar job in the hub of Le Bris’ backline, with the latter delivering a statement performance.
Alderete has also adjusted admirably to the Premier League and will be on a high after guiding Paraguay to World Cup qualification.
Although Sunderland will want him now, they should be able to manage without Ballard for one more match.
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