Dan Ballard steps up as the new leader in the absence of Jonny Evans, ready for the challenge in the Euro 2024 qualifiers.
Match Details: Finland vs. Northern Ireland
Location: Olympic Stadium, Helsinki
Date: Friday, 17 November
Kick-off Time: 17:00 BST
Broadcast Info: Live commentary on BBC Sounds and BBC Radio Ulster; live text and report on Sport News Center website; game highlights on BBC One NI
Dan Ballard is gearing up to shoulder more responsibility in a Northern Ireland team currently short on seasoned defenders.
The 24-year-old Sunderland central defender is set to anchor a backline without Jonny Evans, sidelined due to injury, and the recently retired Craig Cathcart.
Having earned 20 caps since his international debut three years ago, Ballard acknowledges the need to fill the void left by Evans and Cathcart.
Ballard comments on the squad’s missing experience, stating, “With nearly 200 caps shared between them, their absence is significant. It’s our time to rise to the occasion and bridge the gap they’ve left behind.”
Northern Ireland’s squad is grappling with the absence of several key players due to long-term injuries, including Steven Davis, Stuart Dallas, Corry Evans, Shane Ferguson, and most recently, Jonny Evans with a thigh strain.
With much of his international experience gained alongside Evans or Cathcart, Ballard is aware of the increased expectation on him to perform in their absence.
“We aim to gain the trust of the manager and fans through our on-field performance,” Ballard remarks, ahead of the team’s upcoming matches against Finland and Denmark.
Ballard, who recently captained the team in Evans’ absence during a match against San Marino, talks about his growing leadership role. Despite being only 24, he feels a sense of duty to guide the younger players in the squad.
The Northern Ireland manager, Michael O’Neill, faces a tough decision regarding the team’s captaincy for the upcoming games against Finland and Denmark, given the absence of several veteran players.
Ballard, expressing confidence in his leadership abilities, says, “I believe I possess strong leadership skills, beneficial both at the club and national team levels. I’m eager to support and lead my teammates in any way I can.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Dan Ballard Euro 2024
What role is Dan Ballard playing in the Northern Ireland squad for the Euro 2024 qualifiers?
Dan Ballard is stepping up to a leadership role in the Northern Ireland squad for the Euro 2024 qualifiers, especially in the absence of experienced players like Jonny Evans and Craig Cathcart. As a central defender for Sunderland, the 24-year-old is taking on more responsibility in guiding a youthful team through the challenges of the qualifiers.
How has the Northern Ireland team been affected for the Euro 2024 qualifiers?
The Northern Ireland team has been significantly affected by the absence of key players due to injuries and retirements. Experienced defenders Jonny Evans and Craig Cathcart are missing, with Evans sidelined due to injury and Cathcart recently retired. This has led to younger players, including Dan Ballard, taking on more significant roles in the team.
What are the details of Northern Ireland’s upcoming matches in the Euro 2024 qualifiers?
Northern Ireland is set to play against Finland at the Olympic Stadium in Helsinki on Friday, 17 November, with a kick-off time of 17:00 BST. This match, along with another against Denmark, is crucial for their Euro 2024 qualifiers campaign. The matches will be covered live on BBC Sounds and BBC Radio Ulster, with live text and reports on the Sport News Center website and highlights on BBC One NI.
Who is Dan Ballard and what is his experience in international football?
Dan Ballard is a 24-year-old central defender who plays for Sunderland and the Northern Ireland national team. He has earned 20 international caps since making his debut three years ago. Ballard’s experience includes playing alongside seasoned players like Jonny Evans and Craig Cathcart, which has prepared him for his current leadership role in the squad.
More about Dan Ballard Euro 2024
- Northern Ireland Football Association
- Euro 2024 Qualifiers Schedule
- Sunderland Football Club
- BBC Sport – Euro 2024 Coverage
4 comments
gotta say, the injury list sounds pretty bad. O’Neill’s got his work cut out for him. Hope Ballard can rally the team though
Didn’t realise how young he was, only 24 and already taking charge? Impressive, but can he really fill those gaps?
Proud to see our lad stepping up on the international stage! Hope he brings some of that magic back to the club matches too.
so Ballard is now the big man in the squad? big shoes to fill without Evans and Cathcart, but looks like he’s up for it. Go N. Ireland!