Sunderland defender Dan Ballard has suggested that new signing Ian Poveda will get fans ‘on the edge of their seat’ this season.
Sunderland have made three signings so far this campaign, with Regis Le Bris’ squad slowly taking shape ahead of the 2024/25 Championship campaign.
Championship experience has been the priority in Sunderland’s summer transfer window, with Kristjaan Speakman clearly being alarmed by the young side that finished in a lowly 16th position in the 2023/24 campaign.
All three of the Black Cats’ new arrivals have experience playing at Championship level, particularly Alan Browne who has spent a decade with Preston North End.
Goalkeeper Simon Moore has also been brought in as a back-up, as well as mentor, to young shot-stopper Anthony Patterson.
Sunderland’s third arrival Ian Poveda has arrived with plenty of promise, with defender Dan Ballard expressing his excitement over the signing.
- READ MORE: Gus Poyet tells Speakman how Sunderland can achieve ‘perfection’ over Jack Clarke situation
Dan Ballard ‘excited’ by Sunderland signing Ian Poveda
Colombian winger Poveda signed for Sunderland following his release from fellow Championship side Leeds United, having fended off interest from Sheffield Wednesday.
Speaking to the SAFC website, Ballard said: “I’ve kept in touch with him [Poveda] since we played together in youth football.
“He’s a great guy and he helped make my early years at Arsenal really enjoyable.
“One of his best attributes is that he loves to get at defenders and is very direct.
“I know Sunderland fans are going to really enjoy his style of play and he’s going to get them on the edge of their seat.
“I’m really excited that he’s joined and that we’ll get the chance to play with each other again.”
Both Ballard and Poveda started out in the Arsenal Academy before the Colombian earned a move to Barcelona’s youth setup.
Will Ian Poveda revolutionise Sunderland’s attack
When the winger arrived at Sheffield Wednesday during the 2023/24 Championship season, he played a crucial part in their safety, although he was unable to get his name on the scoresheet.
That short stint will provide optimism for Sunderland fans, with Poveda showing that he can still hit the heights.
However, injuries have often plagued his career, particularly last season, which cut his gametime at Sheffield Wednesday massively in the last campaign.
Poveda could be a real asset for Sunderland if they can get him playing consistently and there will be no doubt that he can be a defenders’ nightmare in the Championship, however injury concerns will be the biggest issue surrounding the new Black Cats’ signing.
Le Bris has a real talent at his disposal, providing that he has the confidence and a run of games away from any injury upsets.