Every game Dan Ballard could miss as Sunderland injury update emerges

Sunderland defender Dan Ballard sidelined with hamstring strain; expected to miss six games until late October.

Sunderland centre-back Dan Ballard has been ruled out with a hamstring injury sustained during Northern Ireland's 1-0 win over Georgia on 25 September. The 27-year-old is confirmed unavailable until the last week of October, forcing manager Regis Le Bris to reshuffle his defence during a congested fixture schedule that includes league and European matches. Ballard has been a regular starter this season and a key player for the Black Cats since their return to the top flight.