Ballard sits out big test against Pep's title chasers

SUNDERLAND boss Regis Le Bris revealed that Dan Ballard will be unavailable for their New Year's Day meeting against Manchester City.

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Dan Ballard

The defender missed the Black Cats' 1-1 draw with Leeds on Sunday due to an ankle problem and will be absent against City tonight, but Le Bris is optimistic the injury is not serious.

He said: “Yeah, he’s getting better, but he won't be available for the game tomorrow. We hope for the next fixture, so we'll see, but it’s not serious.”