Régis Le Bris confirms Ballard ban as Sunderland face Man Utd | OneFootball

Sunderland have suffered a major setback before Man Utd’s trip to the Stadium of Light, with Dan Ballard’s appeal rejected and a three-game ban confirming he will miss the rest of the Premier League campaign.

According to Sunderland Echo, head coach Régis Le Bris said the club were disappointed after the FA upheld the decision.

Ballard was dismissed for violent conduct midway through the first half of the 1-1 draw with Wolves after referee Paul Tierney, following a VAR review, ruled he had clearly pulled the hair of striker Tolu Arokodare.

Le Bris felt the incident was unclear, adding he thought Ballard tried to grab the shirt and that long hair became caught unintentionally. He said he understood the referee’s call but believes the rule remains unclear.

Elsewhere, wingers Bertrand Traore and Nilson Angulo are fit to return to the matchday squad on Saturday. The pair returned to full training last week and will join Jocelin Ta Bi in contention.

Le Bris indicated they are unlikely to go straight into the starting XI, instead offering options from the bench. With the group now full, he said there is no need to rush players back and that minutes will be earned through training.

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

Source: Sunderland Echo