‘Best player on the pitch’ – Troy Deeney names Sunderland star in Team of the Week after late Arsenal draw. Forget Ballard

Sunderland’s thrilling 2-2 draw with Arsenal on Saturday evening has earned defender Dan Ballard widespread praise — including a place in Troy Deeney’s Premier League Team of the Week.

The Northern Ireland international produced a standout performance at the Stadium of Light, scoring once, providing an assist, and making a crucial late block to deny the Gunners a last-minute winner.

His commanding display helped Sunderland secure a valuable point and maintain their place fourth in the Premier League, just seven points off top spot heading into the international break.

🗣️ Troy Deeney full of praise for Ballard

Writing in his weekly BBC Sport column, Deeney said:

“Ballard was the best player on the pitch in the draw with Arsenal. I know some Gunners fans won’t like to hear that, but his combination of physicality, intelligence, and tactical awareness was outstanding. What a finish, too.

I’ll be honest, I thought he might struggle stepping up from the Championship, but he’s been excellent so far.”

Deeney included Ballard alongside top performers like Emi Martinez (Aston Villa), Malo Gusto (Chelsea), Michael Keane (Everton), Nico Gonzalez (Man City), and Jeremy Doku (Man City) in his Team of the Week selection.

⚽ Shearer echoes the praise

Speaking on Match of the Day, legendary striker Alan Shearer also singled out Ballard for his immense contribution.

“Dan Ballard epitomised everything Sunderland have done so well this season — especially at home,” Shearer said. “His aggression, leadership, and willingness to throw himself in front of everything were outstanding.

Sunderland were compact, organised, and incredibly tough to break down, and Ballard was at the heart of that.”

Shearer went on to highlight several defensive moments that showcased Ballard’s timing, positioning, and composure under pressure, concluding that his performance summed up Sunderland’s fighting spirit and tactical discipline.

With performances like this, it’s no surprise Ballard is earning recognition — not just from fans, but from some of football’s biggest names.