Sunderland faces a defensive shake-up this weekend due to an injury to Dan Ballard, with three potential replacements in the mix.
Dan Ballard has been a consistent presence and a vital contributor this season for Sunderland. However, during the recent international break while representing Northern Ireland, he sustained an injury, a moment he won’t forget. His return date is uncertain, and there’s a possibility he won’t be rushed back this weekend.
Nevertheless, Sunderland manager Tony Mowbray is well-prepared for this situation, having previously mentioned two under-21 players who he believes can step up when needed. Here are three choices for Mowbray:
1. Jenson Seelt:
Mowbray hasn’t been keen on rotating his defense this season, so it’s expected that whoever steps in will lack experience. Jenson Seelt is likely the frontrunner to replace Ballard, as he has made two substitute appearances this season. The 20-year-old Seelt played for an hour against Middlesbrough and seems to be Mowbray’s most trusted backup in the absence of one of his main defenders.
2. Nectarios Triantis:
Another 20-year-old option is Nectarios Triantis, who joined the team in the summer. Triantis hasn’t played a single minute in Championship football, which probably puts him behind his U21 partner Seelt in terms of selection. However, Triantis will likely be promoted to the first-choice substitute if Seelt starts, and he must be ready in case Seelt doesn’t perform well as a starter.
3. Trai Hume:
Trai Hume recently delivered an outstanding performance for Northern Ireland against Slovenia, earning him the Man of the Match title. If Hume is chosen as Ballard’s replacement, it would require him to play in an unfamiliar position that he’s not accustomed to, potentially leaving the right-back position vacant. Hume offers more experience but comes with positional challenges.
These decisions present a significant challenge for Mowbray as he determines the best course of action for Sunderland’s defense.