Dan Ballard injury latest as hamstring issue ‘could keep him out for months’ | OneFootball

Sunderland are awaiting clarity on Dan Ballard’s hamstring injury, with concern he faces a lengthy spell out. According to Football Insider, there are fears the centre-back could be out for months rather than weeks.

Ballard pulled up in added time during Northern Ireland’s 1-0 win over Georgia on Friday and left the stadium on crutches. The 27-year-old has returned to Wearside for assessment after being ruled out of the remainder of his country’s fixtures.

Sunderland have not confirmed a diagnosis or recovery timeframe for Ballard.

Northern Ireland manager Michael O’Neill said the player would be assessed by Sunderland’s medical staff and that both club and country want him back as soon as possible. He described a November return as hopeful rather than confirmed when his squad reconvenes.

Any lengthy lay-off would be a blow for Régis Le Bris before a demanding October. Ballard has started every Premier League game this season and remains central to Sunderland’s defence. He has been among the division’s leaders for overall and aerial duels won in the opening weeks.

Source: Sunderland Echo

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