Dan Ballard has been lauded with praise for his performances this season so far in the Championship for Sunderland.
Sunderland got back to winning ways on Saturday, beating Norwich and moving to eighth, but just three points away from third.
The Black Cats won the game 3-1, with Jack Clarke once again starring which prompted praise from Tony Mowbray.
But it wasn’t just Sunderland’s lightning attack that caught the eye, with defensive solidity also impressing many.
Dan Ballard who has been great all season is one name who’s been credited with brilliant defensive displays.
Sunderland star praised
Speaking on the What The EFL?! podcast on Monday, Sam Parkin was full of praise for Ballard’s defensive displays this season.
“Ballard’s been a bit of a revelation this year defensively.” Parkin raved as he rattled off the various things he loved about this Sunderland team.
The Northern Irish international has continued to improve this year and his absence recently was a huge loss last week, which makes his return all the better.
No doubt his form will be crucial if Sunderland are to continue being so impressive this campaign.
What is Dan Ballard’s wage?
Dan Ballard at just 23-year-old is already on a very healthy wage for a Championship footballer.
£15k-per-week is what he is on, with a four year contract to run he has a contract worth over £3.1 million, according to Capology.
With playoff’s looking likely this season, there would probably be financial incentive in the form of a wage rise, should promotion be achieved.
All we know for now though is that Ballard is worth every penny this season.