Dan Ballard’s exclusion from Northern Ireland’s team presents a serious injury concern for Sunderland.
In their EURO qualifying match against Slovenia, Michael O’Neill’s team lost 1-0 last night. Ballard, who suffered an injury during the weekend, was not included in the squad.
The defender, who has 15 caps for his country, felt discomfort in his thigh muscle after Northern Ireland defeated San Marino 3-0 on Saturday.
Ballard had to sprint to be ready for yesterday night’s match, O’Neill acknowledged, adding, “We have just had to manage a tightness in his thigh which he woke up with over the last 48 hours.”
We could have removed him, obviously, so it’s not like he was playing through anything, but he didn’t let us know about anything. It’s merely something that emerged after the game.
“Without calling anyone up, I believe we have enough players on the roster. If Daniel is unable to play, I believe we may try to add someone from the Under-21 team.
Ballard was not included, despite the slight possibility that he 
may be available, and he will now return to Wearside prior to their trip to Stoke City.
It’s uncertain, though, if the 24-year-old will be ready to play against the Potters. Even if it was only a little ache that he felt while playing for his country, he could still have to miss the trip to bet365 Stadium.
The last player Sunderland wants to lose is Dan Ballard.
Dan Ballard has undoubtedly returned from the international break before; but, the Black Cats had Danny Batth fill a similar position the previous season.
But replacing Ballard would need either Jenson Seelt or Nectarios Triantis, with the latter being the more likely choice.
Despite the 4-0 loss, the Dutchman seemed very at ease when he was brought on at full-back to replace the injured Niall Huggins against Middlesbrough.
If Ballard is out, it will be a crucial game for Seelt to make his first start, as supporters are eager to bounce back after the terrible 5-1 loss to Alex Neil’s team in March.
However, Trai Hume’s selection as their Man of the Match for his performance against Slovenia is a bright spot for Northern Ireland.
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