Dan Ballard Gives Sunderland Major Injury Boost as Le Bris Confirms Return Plan
Sunderland have received a significant boost ahead of the new season after head coach Régis Le Bris confirmed that defender Dan Ballard is on track to return to competitive action during the club’s pre-season tour of the United States.
The Northern Ireland international has been sidelined since undergoing ankle surgery after his 2025/26 season was cut short. Ballard’s campaign ended prematurely following his red card in Sunderland’s 1-1 draw against Wolves, forcing him to miss the closing stages of the season while recovering from surgery.
Although Ballard has already returned to training at the Academy of Light during the opening weeks of pre-season, he was not included in Sunderland’s squad for the friendly victory over York City. Le Bris explained that the club is carefully managing the defender’s recovery but is pleased with his progress.
Speaking after the match, the Sunderland boss revealed that Ballard is expected to resume full training with the first team next week. If everything goes according to plan, the experienced centre-back will make his first appearance of pre-season during the Black Cats’ tour of the United States, providing a timely defensive boost ahead of the Premier League campaign.
Le Bris also provided updates on several other players currently working their way back to full fitness. Winger Romaine Mundle was another notable absentee against York City, but the French coach stressed that there is no major concern over his condition.
Mundle recently recovered from surgery after suffering two serious hamstring injuries last season. Sunderland’s medical staff are taking a cautious approach to ensure the winger returns without suffering another setback. While he has already resumed training, the club felt it was too soon for him to feature in a competitive pre-season fixture.
Goalkeeper Anthony Patterson was also missing from the matchday squad. His absence is believed to be linked to uncertainty surrounding his future, with several Championship clubs reportedly interested in signing the academy graduate. However, Sunderland have yet to receive an offer that matches their asking price.
Despite the transfer speculation, Patterson continues to train professionally at the Academy of Light as he prepares for the upcoming season. Meanwhile, Robin Roefs appears to have established himself as Sunderland’s first-choice goalkeeper, while Melker Ellborg was given valuable minutes during the victory over York City.
Current indications suggest Patterson could leave the Stadium of Light before the transfer window closes if an acceptable bid arrives. Reports also suggest he is unlikely to travel with the squad for the United States tour should negotiations continue.
There was a slight concern during the York City match when defender Leo Hjelde was forced off in the second half after experiencing discomfort in his right knee. Le Bris explained that the decision to substitute him was purely precautionary, with the club unwilling to risk worsening what appears to be a minor issue.
On a more positive note, defender Aji Alese made his long-awaited return from injury, featuring at left-back during the second half. His comeback provides Sunderland with additional defensive depth as preparations for the new campaign continue.
Away from injury news, Sunderland are also continuing to strengthen their squad in the transfer market. Reports indicate the Black Cats are monitoring Norwegian international Jens Petter Hauge, who currently plays for Bodø/Glimt. The attacking midfielder has reportedly attracted interest from Leeds United and Hull City and is believed to be valued at around £15 million after rebuilding his reputation with impressive performances in Norway.
With key players edging closer to full fitness and transfer activity gathering pace, Sunderland’s preparations for the new season continue to gather momentum.
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