Sunderland defender Dan Ballard has signed a new contract with the Black Cats to extend his stay with the club
Dan Ballard during a Sunderland game
Defender Dan Ballard has agreed a new contract with Sunderland
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Florian Ghisolfi has waxed lyrical about Sunderland defender Dan Ballard after the Northern Ireland international signed a new contract with the Black Cats.
The Sunderland director of football says the central defender embodies the club's identity and is a real leader in the dressing room following the club's promotion to the Premier League.
The 26-year-old has agreed new terms on Wearside until summer 2029, with the club holding option of an additional year.
Ghisolfi said: "Dan represents both the legacy and the future of Sunderland AFC. He embodies our identity through his professionalism, consistency, and spirit.
"He has grown into a Premier League defender, but just as importantly, he has become a leader within our dressing room. We are proud that he believes in our purpose and our ambition.
"His commitment to Sunderland is a powerful message about who we are and what we intend to build."
Ballard has made 114 appearances in red and white and scored eight goals since arriving at the club on a permanent basis from Arsenal in 2022.
He scored the all-important goal in Sunderland's dramatic win over Coventry City in last season's Championship play-off semi-final, sending the Black Cats to Wembley.
Dan Ballard celebrates a Sunderland goal
Dan Ballard scored a crucial play-off goal for Sunderland last season(Image: Carl Recine/Getty Images)
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It's been another impressive campaign for Ballard, who has made 25 appearances in all competitions this season, with two goals and two assists to his name.
The defender admits it was an easy decision to commit his future to the club and said: "I’m absolutely delighted to have signed a new contract. From the moment we began talks, it felt like an easy decision, and I’m happy to be extending my time at the Club.
"Achieving promotion last season was incredible, and I feel very fortunate to have played a part in some special moments in the Club’s recent history.
"My aim this season was to stay in the team, compete every day, and keep working hard to contribute. Hopefully, I can continue improving and help drive the Club forward for many years to come."
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