Sunderland defender Dan Ballard has spoken about how ‘comfortable’ he is playing with Trai Hume.
Ballard and Hume have both been regulars for the Black Cats this season, but also play together on the international stage with Northern Ireland.
Ballard has recently suffered a hamstring injury which has ruled him out of their final Euro qualifier against Denmark, but Hume is likely to play.
Ballard on ‘brilliant’ Hume
Speaking to Belfast Live, Ballard praised Hume as ‘brilliant’ and explained how much he enjoys playing with him.
“He’s been brilliant for us. He came from nowhere last season; he wasn’t playing too much, got his chance and he really took it.
“I’ve played next to him for a year-and-a-half now. He’s a fantastic player, a real technician, someone who Northern Ireland are really lucky to have.
“I think he has a wonderful future. We know each other very, very well.
“I know what he likes to do, he likes to move into midfield a lot. You can trust someone a lot more when you have built up that relationship, I feel comfortable and we’ve got a good chemistry.
“Trai is playing in the Championship, he loves a tackle and I think Northern Ireland will enjoy that as much as Sunderland fans do.”
Northern Irish pair continue to impress
Hume has played a part in every single Championship games for Sunderland this season, whilst Ballard has played in all but one.
Both players have started this season well, with Sunderland now in the top six after a mixed start to the season.
Both have been playing well for their nation too, despite the Northern Irish not making it to Euro 2024.
They will be hoping to push Sunderland high up the table when they return.