Régis Le Bris gives Dan Ballard boost and Sunderland injury latest after York City win | OneFootball

Régis Le Bris says Dan Ballard will get his first game time on Sunderland's USA tour after missing the 5-1 win at York City. He added Romaine Mundle was left out purely as a precaution.

According to Sunderland Echo, the centre-back will rejoin full training next week after ankle surgery earlier this year, which followed the red card that brought his 2025/26 season to an early end in the 1-1 draw with Wolves. Ballard has been back on Wearside over the past fortnight but did not feature at the LNER Community Stadium.

Sunderland are taking a careful approach with Mundle after two major hamstring injuries last season. Le Bris said the timing was too early for him to play so soon after surgery.

Anthony Patterson was not involved while his long-term future is addressed. He has interest from a number of Championship clubs, but no offer has met Sunderland's valuation. He has been training at the Academy of Light and appears highly unlikely to travel to the US.

Leo Hjelde will be assessed after going off in the second half at York. The head coach said they avoided risks after the defender felt minor pain and discomfort in his right knee.

Source: Sunderland Echo