Journalist and Sunderland supporter Josh Bunting has been left thrilled by the signing of Daniel Ballard.
The Lowdown: Ballard signs
As confirmed by the official website of the Stadium of Light outfit, Ballard has signed a three-year deal with the option of a further year, and arrives from Arsenal for an undisclosed transfer fee.
Manager Alex Neil stated upon making the signing that he wanted to add ‘competition’ in the centre-back area after Arby Xhemajli left the Wearside club, and Ballard will certainly provide that.
The Latest: Bunting thrilled
Taking to Twitter, Bunting was left thrilled by the transfer news, claiming that he was ‘absolutely buzzing’ with Ballard’s signing:
“Absolutely buzzing with the Daniel Ballard addition, developing into a top young centre-back. Reads the game very well, in the air that’s his main strength absolutely outstanding in those battles. He’s mobile and can carry a lot of ground. Certainly makes that area much stronger.”
The Verdict: Exciting
Bunting’s analysis of what Ballard will bring to the team is certainly exciting for the Black Cats supporters.
On loan at Millwall last season, the Northern Ireland international was their fourth-best performer in the Championship, and ranked highly among his teammates in terms of aerial duels won and average tackles, interceptions, clearances and blocks per match (WhoScored).
His added experience in the second tier will certainly help, and having never made a senior appearance for the Gunners in his time there, the 22-year-old will certainly have a point to prove as he looks to eventually take SAFC back up to the Premier League.