I must admit’: Dodds claims it is ‘glaringly obvious’ how ‘important’ 24-year-old is to Sunderland
One Sunderland player has been praised by Mike Dodds as one of the “best” in the Championship at his position.
Since Michael Beale was appointed in December, Sunderland has played very poorly and has suffered two further losses since his dismissal.
The Black Cats have fallen to tenth place as a result of several subpar performances by players including Luke O’Nien, Jobe Bellingham, and Pierre Ekwah. The team has also faced harsh criticism in recent weeks.
One of their important players, Dan Ballard, who is among the few who have received plaudits this season, will make his return against Plymouth Argyle tonight. Jack Clarke, their best player, is out until next month.
32 games have been played by the center back for the Wearside outfit this season and has, for the most part, been “a revelation,” even though his two-match ban had left a void in the group.
Jenson Seelt took Ballard’s position against Swansea City and Norwich, but the absence of the Arsenal academy graduate made the backline appear much weaker.
Ballard is expected to return right away to the center of defense, where Mike Dodds has acknowledged that his absence has made his significance “glaringly obvious.”
The interim coach stated, “I think it was blatantly evident how essential he was to us, in an interview with Chronicle Live.
“Obviously, Dan travels with his country during international breaks. He is strong, plays a lot of games for us, and works out every day, so it was crucial we
allowed him a few of days to clear his head.
“I have to admit that he has been incredibly energetic and effervescent for the last seven to ten days; it’s almost like we signed a new player. He has proven how vital he is to us, so I’m really looking forward to having him back in the squad and the team. As I’ve already stated, I believe he is among the league’s greatest defenders, and his absence from the club has strengthened that opinion.
How much has Dan Ballard been missed?
This season, Dan Ballard has been Sunderland’s best player. As a result, many of the team’s results have been a little closer than they may have been.
The 24-year-old has won the most headers (94), made the most clearances (138), and blocked the most shots (29) of any player in the team.
He is without a doubt one of the most significant players and provides some leadership to a team that is severely short on experience. He has also shown himself to be useful at the other end of the field.
This season, Ballard has scored goals against QPR, Sheffield Wednesday, and West Brom. The defender is maybe our greatest threat from set pieces.
He is greatly missed on the field, and perhaps his return this evening will be a turning moment.
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