Sunderland head coach Régis Le Bris has opened up on the club’s tailored fitness and training regime that has helped Dan Ballard become one of the Premier League’s most consistent defenders this season. The Northern Ireland international produced another outstanding performance in Saturday’s 2–2 draw against Arsenal, scoring once, assisting another, and making a crucial last-minute block to secure a vital point at the Stadium of Light.
Ballard, 26, has been in exceptional form since regaining his place in the side during last season’s play-offs. After overcoming an injury-plagued campaign in 2024/25, the centre-back has emerged as a key figure in Sunderland’s return to the Premier League under Le Bris — a transformation the French coach says has been carefully managed behind the scenes.
Le Bris details customised Ballard training plan
Speaking after the draw with Arsenal, Le Bris revealed that Ballard follows a specialised conditioning programme crafted by Sunderland’s sports science and medical departments to manage his physical load and prevent recurrence of the groin problems that previously hampered his progress.
“Last season he had an injury early, so he struggled to find the right rhythm,” Le Bris said. “If you miss pre-season, it’s difficult to find that connection with your own performance and the team. Now we’re trying to find the right balance because he has a specific profile. You can’t train Ballard like you train a midfielder.” — Régis Le Bris, Sunderland head coach
Le Bris added that Ballard’s physical resilience has improved significantly thanks to the staff’s targeted approach: “At the minute, I think he’s in good shape and we want to continue like this. He’s worked hard, and the structure around him has helped.”
Premier League challenge helping Ballard grow
The Sunderland manager believes that competing at Premier League level has been crucial to Ballard’s continued development, exposing him to higher tactical standards and faster opposition.
“If you experience the Premier League like we are doing now, you learn every time,” Le Bris explained. “Our teammates are probably better this season, our opponents are better, and if you stay consistent, you learn every day. He’s tall, he’s big, he’s aggressive, and he’s talented as a defender. I hope he’ll continue to grow like that.”
Ballard’s evolution from an injury-hit Championship defender to a commanding Premier League performer has been one of Sunderland’s success stories this season. His leadership, aerial dominance, and positional discipline have provided the foundation for the club’s resilient start to life back in the top flight.
The attitude that impressed Le Bris most
Le Bris also praised the mentality and bravery of Sunderland’s defenders, singling out Ballard for his willingness to “give everything” to protect the goal — particularly referencing his heroic late block to deny Mikel Merino against Arsenal.
“I was surprised when I started here by their attitude to defend the goal,” Le Bris said. “Here in Sunderland, we have many players who will give their life to keep a clean sheet or to stop a shot. Players like Trai Hume, Ballard, Luke O’Nien — they’re really good for that.” — Régis Le Bris
That defensive commitment has become a hallmark of Le Bris’ Sunderland side, who continue to defy expectations after promotion.
Dan Ballard 2025/26 Premier League Stats
| Stat (2025/26) | Dan Ballard |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 9 |
| Goals | 2 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Accurate Passes | 83% |
| Total Duels Won | 63% |
| Ground Duels Won | 73% |
| Aerial Duels Won | 60% |
| Clearances (per game) | 6.6 |
| Tackles (per game) | 1.0 |
source: Sofascore data – 11 November 2025
Ballard’s numbers underline his reliability and defensive leadership. His 6.6 clearances per game highlight his ability to read danger, while his duel success rates reflect both strength and timing.
Our View: Sunderland’s defensive leader reborn
FootballPlace analyst John William says Sunderland’s tailored approach has unlocked Ballard’s full potential. “He’s playing with confidence, and Le Bris’ emphasis on smart recovery and individual load management is paying off,” he said. “Ballard’s stats show he’s among the most consistent defenders outside the top six — a genuine Premier League-calibre centre-back.”
William added: “If Sunderland can keep him fit, they have a foundation to build on for years. His blend of power, composure, and tactical maturity makes him a natural leader.”
Key Insights
- Régis Le Bris has implemented a customised training plan for Dan Ballard.
- Ballard’s form has been outstanding, with 2 goals and 1 assist in 9 matches.
- Sunderland’s defenders praised for their mentality and willingness to “give everything.”
- Le Bris credits Premier League experience for accelerating Ballard’s growth.
- Ballard’s duel and clearance stats mark him among the league’s best-performing centre-backs.
What’s Next for Sunderland?
After holding Arsenal to a thrilling 2–2 draw, Sunderland will aim to build on that result after the international break. With Le Bris’ defensive system now clicking into place and Ballard at the heart of it, the Black Cats look increasingly capable of competing with top-flight opposition.
The focus now is on maintaining Ballard’s fitness and continuing his upward trajectory. If the 26-year-old can stay injury-free, his performances could help Sunderland not only survive but thrive in their first Premier League season since 2017.
👉 Can Dan Ballard continue his sensational form and lead Sunderland to Premier League safety this season?
1 Comment (last comment by JamesLove)
First read message
By JamesLove 11 Nov 2025 07:17
A tank! Top 5 CB in the league
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