Régis Le Bris confirms Dan Ballard ban blow before Man Utd visit | OneFootball

Sunderland have suffered a major blow as Dan Ballard’s appeal has failed, ruling him out ahead of Manchester United’s visit.

According to Sunderland Echo, Régis Le Bris confirmed the FA has upheld both the red card and the three-game ban, meaning Ballard will miss the rest of the Premier League campaign.

The defender was sent off for violent conduct in the 1-1 draw with Wolves, after a VAR review led referee Paul Tierney to judge he had clearly pulled the hair of striker Tolu Arokodare.

Le Bris said they were disappointed and felt the episode was unclear. He believed Ballard tried to grab the shirt and long hair became caught, stressing there was no intent but the law stood and the rule felt unclear.

Bertrand Traore and Nilson Angulo are fit to rejoin the matchday squad on Saturday afternoon. They, along with Jocelin Ta Bi, are back in contention, although the head coach hinted they are unlikely to start and instead could offer options from the bench.

He added that training is not the same as a full game against Manchester United and, with a full group, there is no need to rush returns. Players will need to show in training to earn minutes.

Romaine Mundle remains the only other absentee as he continues his recovery from a hamstring injury.

Source: Sunderland Echo