Régis Le Bris gives Dan Ballard and Sunderland injury update after 5-1 York win | OneFootball

According to Sunderland Echo, Régis Le Bris expects Dan Ballard to return to Sunderland action on the upcoming USA tour, while Romaine Mundle’s absence against York City was only precautionary after the Black Cats’ 5-1 win.

Ballard had ankle surgery earlier this year after his 2025/26 campaign ended early following a red card in a 1-1 draw with Wolves. He has been back on Wearside for the past fortnight but did not feature in the pre-season opener.

Ballard will join full training next week and will get his first minutes in the USA. Sunderland are taking a careful approach with Mundle after two major hamstring injuries last season, and his recent surgery meant this fixture came too soon.

Anthony Patterson was not involved as his long-term future remains unresolved. There is interest from a number of Championship clubs, though none has met the club’s valuation. He has been training at the Academy of Light and is highly unlikely to travel to the USA.

Leo Hjelde will be assessed in the coming days after going off in the second half at York. No risks were taken and he reported minor pain and discomfort in his right knee.

Source: Sunderland Echo