Dan Ballard reveals doubts over Premier League step before Crystal Palace | OneFootball

Dan Ballard has admitted he wrestled with doubts about stepping up to the Premier League as Sunderland returned to the top flight, but says keeping his place and performing has exceeded his expectations.

“I probably surprised myself with how well we've done in the Premier League, remaining in the team and doing well has been an added bonus. There's always doubt when you play in a new league,” he told BBC Sport NI.

“Certain players struggled in the past, we signed a lot of players, there's lots of competition, and it might not have worked out,” he added. “But I was really determined in pre-season and wanting to show the manager, the team and the fans I can play in this league, and I think I've done that so far.”

The 26-year-old has started 17 of 21 league games and scored twice, including a standout strike against former club Arsenal in a 2-2 draw. Sunderland are 10th, despite added competition from summer signings Omar Alderete and Nordi Mukiele.

Ballard has also been named North East Football Writers’ Player of the Year. Head coach Régis Le Bris said the honour reflected a strong year and that Ballard has shown he can perform at this level with consistency while staying fit.

Sunderland host Crystal Palace at the Stadium of Light this weekend, with Ballard expected to feature at centre-back as Le Bris’ side look to consolidate their place in the top half.

Source: Sunderland Echo