Estimated market value (beta)
Overview
Weighted average of attribute scores for this role, position-adjusted. Standout attributes count more than weaknesses.
Attributes (grouped)
Mobility
Solid but not explosive recovery pace typical of a physical Championship-bred centre-back. (conf 0.6)
Adequate straight-line speed to cope with in-behind runners at Premier League level. (conf 0.6)
Functional turning ability but relies more on positioning than nimbleness. (conf 0.55)
Ever-present in Sunderland's promotion campaign, rarely tiring across 90 minutes. (conf 0.6)
Control
Clean enough control under pressure to bring the ball down and start play. (conf 0.55)
Limited ball-carrying instinct, prefers simple progression over take-ons. (conf 0.55)
Uses his frame well to protect the ball when pressed by forwards. (conf 0.55)
Capable long-range clearance and pass strike but not a threat from distance. (conf 0.5)
Distribution
Reliable in build-up phases, keeps possession under moderate pressure. (conf 0.6)
Can find switches and line-breaking balls though not a standout distributor. (conf 0.55)
Rarely delivers crosses, not part of his defensive-focused role. (conf 0.5)
Reads passing lanes competently but not a creative outlet from the back. (conf 0.5)
Chance threat
Occasional set-piece poacher's instinct but limited overall finishing quality. (conf 0.5)
Sensible when shooting chances arise, mostly from set-piece situations. (conf 0.45)
Good near-post runs on corners, adds attacking value at set pieces. (conf 0.5)
A genuine aerial threat at both boxes on dead-ball situations. (conf 0.5)
Duels
Dominant in the air, a key defensive and attacking weapon on set pieces. (conf 0.75)
Strong tackler who wins the majority of one-on-one duels in the box. (conf 0.65)
Defense
Engages front-foot defending consistently within Sunderland's structured press. (conf 0.55)
Timely interceptions and blocks that break up opposition attacks. (conf 0.6)
Disciplined shape and covers well, central to Sunderland's promotion-winning defence. (conf 0.65)
Mental
Rarely rattled under pressure, calm on the ball in his own third. (conf 0.6)
Generally sound choices on when to step out or hold the defensive line. (conf 0.55)
Consistent effort and reliability across a demanding promotion-winning season. (conf 0.65)
Resilience
Has had some injury spells but generally available for regular selection. (conf 0.55)
Outlook
Mid-20s centre-back likely at or near his ceiling as a top-flight regular. (conf 0.55)
Well known in English football circles, capped internationally by Northern Ireland. (conf 0.55)
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Scouting Report & Player Insights
Daniel Ballard is a physical, aerially dominant centre-back who came through Arsenal's academy before finding regular first-team football at Millwall and then Sunderland. A commanding presence in both boxes, he was a key figure in Sunderland's push into the Premier League, pairing strong duelling and positional discipline with a genuine threat at set pieces. He is a full Northern Ireland international and represents the reliable, no-nonsense defensive type Sunderland have relied on in their top-flight return.
Came through Arsenal's academy before moving on to first-team football elsewhere.
Full international for Northern Ireland.
Was a key defensive figure as Sunderland secured promotion to the Premier League.