Ballard opens up on Le Bris' impact, Xhaka's power and Cats' season goal

Dan Ballard says Sunderland's remarkable Premier League start is being built on clear standards, elite leadership and a grounded internal target-as the defender revealed the club's season goal remains purely survival despite sitting in the top four.

- by James Copley

Arsenal's Mikel Merino has his shot blocked by Sunderland defender Dan Ballard late on at the Stadium of Light.

Speaking after his goal-and-assist performance in the 2-2 draw with Arsenal, Ballard offered a revealing insight into the culture driving Sunderland's rise, explaining how Granit Xhaka's influence, Régis Le Bris' tactical authority and the squad's togetherness have shaped the first months of their topflight return.

The centre-back, who began his career at Arsenal before thriving on Wearside, said Xhaka's impact has transformed the dressing room and helped push Sunderland to levels many outside the club didn't expect.

He also lifted the lid on Le Bris' role in his development and why, despite the club's league position, nobody inside the camp is getting carried away.

"I was really young when I was at Arsenal and he [Xhaka] was there, so I didn't spend too much time with him, but to have him in our team is really special," Ballard said.

"He's a real leader. I've never had a captain or a leader in the dressing room like he is-I didn't think someone could be so influential. We're delighted to have him. He keeps driving the standards."

And despite Sunderland's lofty position, Ballard insists the team's ambition hasn't changed.