‘Incredible’ – Marco Gabbiadini hails Sunderland duo who ‘didn’t stop all afternoon’ vs Wolves

‘Incredible’ – Marco Gabbiadini hails Sunderland duo who ‘didn’t stop all afternoon’ vs Wolves

Sunderland Defeat Wolves 2-0: Gabbiadini Hails Ballard and Alderete’s Defensive Masterclass

Sunderland claimed a 2–0 victory over Wolves on Saturday afternoon, and former club legend Marco Gabbiadini has praised Dan Ballard and Omar Alderete for their “incredible” defensive performance in the win.

Under Regis Le Bris, the pair formed the central partnership in a back four, with Nordi Mukiele shifting to right-back and Trai Hume moving across to the left.

The tactical reshuffle paid off early, as the two full-backs combined brilliantly for Sunderland’s opening goal—Hume providing a clever assist for Mukiele’s strike in the 16th minute.

While Gabbiadini was impressed with both Hume and Mukiele, it was the commanding displays of Ballard and Alderete—who made a combined 10 interceptions over the 90 minutes—that drew his highest praise.

What Gabbiadini Said About Ballard and Alderete

Speaking on BBC Radio Newcastle’s Total Sport, Gabbiadini commented:

“Wolves had plenty of the ball, lots of possession and passes—you could argue they were on top—but what did they really create? Not much.

There are two ways to play football: you can be all about passing and movement, but without an end product or clinical finishers, it doesn’t count for much. That’s where Wolves struggled.

Alderete and Ballard were immense. They just headed and cleared everything all afternoon. It was incredible to watch.”

When asked whether Le Bris’ defensive reshuffle had worked, Gabbiadini agreed:

“It did. Mukiele’s versatility really helps. Everyone loves Ballard—he’s the kind of defender Sunderland fans want in the team.

Mukiele and Alderete had built a good partnership, so it wasn’t easy to change things, but I think after Ballard’s strong performances for Northern Ireland, and given Wolves’ aerial threat, the manager wanted two centre-backs who absolutely love defending—and that’s exactly what he got.

Hume’s adaptability is another big plus. Modern full-backs are usually two-footed and comfortable switching sides. What I really liked, watching the game back, was how well we rotated.

On the first goal, Hume was almost playing as an attacking midfielder on the edge of the box, while Mukiele burst forward like a winger. It was great to see.”