According to The Sun, Ballard left Arsenal FC as a teenager, but today he has become the "warrior" that Sunderland's management are most proud of. The versatile defender, 26, may not wear the captain's armband at Wearside, but you'd be hard-pressed to find a more natural leader.

With captain Granit Xhaka ready to hand over the armband, Sunderland have found the ideal successor to take on the role and continue their journey toward the highest level.

In the 2025 Championship Play-off semi-final, Ballard scored against Coventry City in extra time, securing a place in the final at Wembley, where Sunderland defeated Sheffield United to claim promotion.

The Northern Ireland international has been equally unstoppable in the Premier League. He scored on opening day in a win over West Ham, marking the start of this fairytale season.

Since then, despite the club investing heavily in players like Malik Fofana and Mehtali, the true heartbeat of this team—the player Sunderland value most—remains Ballard. The club is preparing for European football for the first time in 53 years.

Director of Football Gisolfi recently extended Ballard's contract until 2029 and told The Sun: "Ballard is not an ordinary player. He played many matches in the Championship, and when you see him now, he's a top-level player. He's a warrior.

"This type of player is the most important in a team because they represent the club's legacy.

"We've discussed the balance between leadership and youth potential, but the balance between new contracts and legacy is equally important.

"We're proud to have helped develop this type of player into someone who can play in the Premier League and Europa League."

When Ballard joined the Stadium of Light, Sunderland finally escaped League One. Signed from Arsenal FC for around £1 million, he has since proven to be one of the best signings in the club's history.

The impact of this commanding centre-back extends beyond the pitch. His presence also influences the entire Academy of Light operation.

19-year-old youngster Chris Rigg has witnessed Sunderland's remarkable rise, with Ballard by his side every step of the way.

Rigg told The Sun: "He's a great person. He looks like a big, strong guy, but he's actually very gentle.

"He's an excellent player. He came from the lower leagues and has proven himself. He's a crucial member of our team both on and off the pitch."

When Ballard first arrived at the Academy of Light, he was a different person than he is today.

At that time, he had just received his second release notice. The first came at age 14 as a midfielder. Yet at 16, despite a back injury, he still accepted an invitation to travel three hours by train from London to represent his former club against Arsenal FC.

He knew he had to impress the Gunners scouts watching from the stands, but the pain eventually forced him off the pitch early.

Ballard left believing his chance at the highest level had passed, but his resilience and ability weren't overlooked. He was given another opportunity at Arsenal FC, signing as a scholar before turning professional.

After loan spells at Swindon, Blackpool, and Millwall, Arsenal FC sold Ballard to Sunderland permanently. He never made a senior appearance for the Gunners at Emirates Stadium.

Leaving a club where you've spent 15 years is difficult for anyone, but this transfer ultimately proved to be the defining moment in his development. Last November, he finally experienced true growth.

After scoring against Arsenal FC, the eventual champions, he celebrated in front of the Sunderland fans by flexing his muscles.

It's another memorable image etched into red and white memories.

Ballard's legend in the north has been built, and fellow Black Cats supporters believe he will ultimately take over from Xhaka.

This centre-back is expected to continue Sunderland's story by starting what could be the most important week in the club's past 53 years against his former employers.

Striker Kevin Phillips told The Sun via BestBettingSites: "Xhaka is better known, but Ballard stands out for Sunderland.

"He reminds me of Jody Craddock, who joined Sunderland around the same time as me. He's a very practical centre-back.

"Fans love him because he likes to fight, he likes to compete, and he can score goals too.

"Ballard has a great future ahead. If he can perform like Xhaka throughout his career, that would be remarkable. He'll develop into a very good player.

"He always steps up when it matters, and I wouldn't be surprised if he does it again this weekend."

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