BALLARD'S BUSY WEEKEND

It was a great weekend for Dan Ballard. After helping his team to a good point on the road on Saturday, news broke on Sunday that he'd signed a new contract with Sunderland taking him to 2029, with the club holding the option of an extra year. This was a welcome boost for supporters, given his formidable performances this season. Then, on the same day, he was named the North East Football Writers' Association Player Of The Year for 2025. Congratulations Dan, very well deserved!

NEW DEAL...

"I'm delighted. From the first minute this has been a really easy decision. I was delighted to extend my stay."

WHAT A JOURNEY

"I always hoped something like this would happen but I don't think I could have pictured, especially the last year, how well it's gone. From joining the club in it's first year back in the Championship, we had a few good and tough years, and then getting promotion last year was amazing. To sign a new contract now in the Premier League is a dream come true."

BUILDING ON ICONIC MOMENTS

"I've been really lucky and fortunate to have been involved in some really nice moments in this club's history now. The goal this year was to try and stay in the team, for me personally. You see the great players they've brought in and the competition is so high, I've worked really hard to be a part of the team this year. Hopefully I can keep improving and keep helping the team as much as possible."

LOVE FOR THE CITY

"Me and my family love it in the north east and we are really settled here. We love the people and, as I sort of said earlier, it was a bit of a no-brainer. I'm enjoying my time, loving every minute, and hopefully I can try to stay as long as possible."

CURRENT GROUP OF PLAYERS

"Coming into work as a footballer you want to enjoy it. The games are special on the weekend but throughout the week, being around great people and great players and learning every day, I'm just enjoying every day. I think that's a massive part of it. I think we got quite lucky to put this group together, it's a joy to come to work every day."

END OF SEASON GOALS

"The goal will stay the same, we want to stay in the league. We've obviously exceded expectations and are in a strong position now, but we've seen how tough the Premier League can be. I think our first goal is to get enough points to stay in the league and if we can do that sooner rather than later then I'm sure we'll set some new goals then."

2025 PLAYER OF THE YEAR...

"I’m incredibly honoured to receive this award - it really means a lot. The last year has been nothing short of unbelievable, from that moment in the play-off semi-final to winning at Wembley as we did, and then everything that has followed. Those are memories I’ll carry with me forever. None of it happens without my team-mates, the staff, and the supporters who’ve been with us every step of the way. To now be playing in the Premier League with Sunderland and to receive recognition from the North-East football writers makes it even more special. It’s been a dream-like year, and I’m proud to share this moment with everyone connected to the club.”