Sunderland star signs new deal

Sunderland defender Dan Ballard, 26, has signed a contract extension until summer 2029 with an option for an additional year, following their away draw to Bournemouth.

Since signing in 2022, Ballard has made 114 appearances in red and white, scoring eight goals, including the iconic last minute winner in the Play-Off semi-final against Coventry City that sent the Black Cats to Wembley and later helped them to the Premier League in the final, which has resulted in him having a mural in the city centre of his last grasp winner.

The Northern Ireland international has been pivotal at the back across his four seasons at the club and has gone on to be a standout in their return season in the Premier League, playing 27 times earning eight clean sheets, while scoring a goal against league leaders Arsenal at the Stadium of Light.

Ballard joined Sunderland in their return to the Championship from Arsenal for an undisclosed fee, having previously played on loan for Blackpool and Millwall.

In his time at Sunderland he has also become a starter for Northern Ireland, picking up 33 caps while scoring five goals, alongside fellow team mate Trai Hume.

Upon signing the contract, Ballard said: “I’m absolutely delighted to have signed a new contract. It felt like an easy decision, and I am happy to be extending my time at the club,” in his interview with Sunderland.

“Achieving promotion last season was incredible and I feel very fortunate to have played a part in some special moments in the club’s recent history.”