Stefan Schwarz is a big admirer of Sunderland defender Dan Ballard
Daniel Ballard of Sunderland challenges Gabriel Jesus of Arsenal
Dan Ballard of Sunderland challenges Arsenals Gabriel Jesus
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Former Arsenal and Sunderland midfielder Stefan Schwarz reckons he would like Dan Ballard to return to Arsenal.
The 58-year-old ex-Sweden international played for the Black Cats in a four-year spell from 1999.
A cultured performer in the middle of the park, Schwarz has every admiration for Balland.
Speaking to BOYLE Sports who offer the latest Premier League odds, he said: “Dan Ballard to Arsenal? I love him. He is very strong, hard-working and very honest.
“He takes his football very seriously, and the way he’s worked on his trade at Sunderland he could go on to a bigger stage but I hope that he stays to bring Sunderland to a bigger stage instead.
“Sunderland are in a very good situation and if Ballard stays for the next couple of years he can grow as a player and as a person as well.
"It’s a good club that he can take to the next stage because we don’t know how much the Sunderland owners want to invest into next season.
"He needs to know the vision for it but I think they have grown from last year and the team will grow again next year.
3 Nov 2001: Muzzy Izzet of Leicester challenged by Stefan Schwarz of Sunderland
Former Sunderland midfielder Stefan Schwarz(Image: Allsport)
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Daniel Ballard of Sunderland battles for possession with Gabriel Jesus of Arsenal
Dan Ballard of Sunderland heads clear against Arsenal
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“Sometimes you have to be realistic. You can’t grow too fast. You need to make it a little bit more sustainable. But Dan Ballard is one of my favourite Sunderland players.”
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