Yesterday it was confirmed that fan favourite Dan Ballard signed a new contract at Sunderland, running until 2027.
Ballard suffered with injury last season but has featured regularly during pre-season and is fit for Sunderland's return to Championship action against Ipswich Town on Sunday.
Ballard said: “I’m extremely happy to have signed a new deal at Sunderland. Over the past year, I’ve really grown to love the club – the support and the love that I’ve got, the people I’ve met, the city, it’s all been amazing – and I feel that I’m in the best spot in my career. In this team, I’m taking up a new role in being one of the leaders and I’m excited to do that. I’m looking forward to the new campaign and can’t wait for Sunday.”
Kristjaan Speakman added: "Dan has proved that he’s a standout performer at this level and he’s growing in stature every day, on and off the pitch. He has a bright future ahead of him and he’s extremely ambitious, and his decision to renew terms with us demonstrates that he feels his ambition is matched by that of the Club. Dan follows Dennis Cirkin and Trai Hume in committing his future to SAFC this summer, and it is a huge boost for us to be securing the futures of such high-calibre players. We look forward to continuing to support his development and believe he has a big season ahead of him.”
