Daniel Ballard played a crucial role in Millwall’s 1-0 win over Bristol City last night, and some Arsenal fans were quick to express their delight on Twitter.
The youngster joined the Arsenal academy when he was eight years old, and signed his first professional contract in 2018. He is currently on a season-long loan at Millwall, making 11 appearances for the club already.
The 22-year-old had a productive loan spell last season at League One side Blackpool and helped them gain promotion to the Championship. He has also earned ten caps for Northern Ireland since making his debut last year.
He has been an integral part of the Lions’ defense this season and proved his worth yet again with another solid performance last night. It was the visitors who started the game brightly with a couple of attempts on goal.
Ballard was part of a back three and was deployed on the right side. He was very good defensively and played a major role in keeping the visitors at bay. Millwall broke the deadlock from the penalty spot in the 64th minute. This victory sees them move to 14th place on the League table.
These are some of the best reactions to Ballard’s performance from Twitter:
Really hope he can be one of our central defensive choices next season, alongside White, Gabriel and Saliba …
— Seahawk Gunner (@sambo593) September 29, 2021
There are two defenders that really shouldn’t go on loan again….Ballard and Saliba
— Bolaji Ojo (@BolajiOjo10) September 30, 2021
There are two defenders that really shouldn’t go on loan again….Ballard and Saliba
— Bolaji Ojo (@BolajiOjo10) September 30, 2021
Good to see. Big talent. Keep it up 👏🏼👏🏼
— Ross (@leach_ross) September 30, 2021
Next season Holding and Mari will be replaced by Saliba and Daniel Ballard.#afc#AFC
— Getreuw Faith (@getreuw) September 30, 2021
Daniel Ballard might make it before Saliba does you know…
— 🇲🇦 (@WalotSilt) September 30, 2021
Come on kid let’s make it happen
— D.Surprise Togba (@Debinho4) September 29, 2021
Arsenal Fever View:
The North Ireland international is yet to make his senior debut for Arsenal but is certainly knocking on the doors with another excellent loan spell. The Gunners have reinforced their defensive options this summer with the addition of Ben White for a fee close to £50million. Although it would be difficult for the youngster to break into the first team immediately next season, he can surely work his way from the bench.
It is also important to bear in mind that Ballard’s current deal expires next summer, meaning he has to continue producing such fine performances at the Championship to earn a new contract. It would make sense to include him in pre-season plans next summer and a decision on his future can be made after that.
Injuries and fitness problems have had a crippling effect on Arsenal’s squad. Ballard has the quality to be a capable backup. His recent performances suggest there are reasons to be optimistic.
Read More: ‘Thank God’ – Arsenal fans react to update on Matteo Guendouzi
