Dan Ballard was on the scoresheet for Sunderland in their last outing vs Norwich City. But he was forced off late in the game with a fresh injury.
Dan Ballard headed home the equalising goal shortly after the break as Sunderland came from behind to beat Norwich, marking a second comeback win in as many games for Regis Le Bris’ side.
They remain in 4th place of the Championship table and now have a six-point lead over Blackburn Rovers in 5th, who they face on Boxing Day.
John Eustace’s side had won six games on the spin before a 1-0 defeat at Millwall last time out, keeping an impressive five clean sheets in those six games as well.
Ballard suffered an injury against Norwich City last time out, being forced off the pitch with a few minutes left to play.
The Black Cats already have a lengthy injury list, but it looks like several names are nearing a return to action with the likes of Ian Poveda being named on the bench against Norwich.
Dan Ballard ruled out of Blackburn Rovers vs Sunderland
Speaking to the press on Thursday afternoon, Le Bris revealed that Ballard will be missing following the knock he picked up against Norwich City.
Le Bris said when asked if Ballard is OK to feature at Ewood Park: “No. He won’t be available.”
Ballard has already spent time on the sidelines this season having racked up just 12 Championship appearances so far, compared to 43 in the last campaign.
Le Bris no doubt reverts to a centre pairing of Chris Mepham and Luke O’Nien for the game against Blackburn on Boxing Day.
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Dan Ballard now a reported target for Sunderland’s north-east rivals
Ballard’s impressive run of form of late has made him a January transfer target for several clubs in the Premier League.
It’s even claimed that Newcastle United are taking a look at Ballard. But pundit Carlton Palmer has played down the chances of Ballard ever heading to St James’ Park.
He said: “There is always talk about the noisy neighbours, Newcastle United, but I can’t see Sunderland letting him go to them.
“Clubs are going to be looking at all of their quality players. We know the way Sunderland operate – bringing players in like Dan Ballard for little money and, once they’ve flourished, looking to get £20million.”
Sunderland will be solely focused on what is going to be a very tough Blackburn game on Boxing Day. And with Sheffield United and Burnley playing each other, we could see some movement near the top of the table.