Regis Le Bris provided updates on several of his injured Sunderland players following the victory at York City. The French head coach confirmed that Dan Ballard is on course to make his return during Sunderland’s upcoming tour of the United States.
Ballard's recovery progress
The Northern Ireland international underwent ankle surgery after his 2025/26 campaign was brought to an early conclusion following a red card in the 1-1 draw with Wolves. Ballard has been back on Wearside with his team-mates during the opening fortnight of pre-season but was not involved at the LNER Community Stadium.
“Dan Ballard will join full training sessions next week, which is a good sign, and he will get his first game time in America,” Le Bris told reporters.
Mundle and Patterson updates
Romaine Mundle was another notable absentee at York, although Le Bris confirmed that his omission was precautionary as the club look to manage the winger’s workload. Mundle suffered two significant hamstring injuries last season, meaning Sunderland are taking a cautious approach to his recovery. “Romaine trained last week and was fit, but it was a bit too early to play after the surgery,” Le Bris explained.
Meanwhile, Anthony Patterson did not feature against York as the goalkeeper continues to wait for his long-term future to be resolved. The academy graduate has attracted interest from several Championship clubs, but none have yet met Sunderland’s valuation. Patterson has continued training at the Academy of Light to ensure he is prepared for the new campaign. Robin Roefs remains established as Sunderland’s first-choice goalkeeper, while Melker Ellborg played the opening half at York. Patterson’s omission provided another indication that a permanent departure remains the expected outcome, provided an interested club can agree a deal and he is not expected to travel to the USA.
Hjelde and Alese injury news
Leo Hjelde will be assessed after being forced off during the second half of Sunderland’s victory. The defender appeared to suffer a knee issue and was withdrawn rather than risk aggravating the problem. “We didn’t want to take risks, so he felt a small pain and discomfort in his right knee,” Le Bris said.
There was more positive news as Aji Alese returned following another lengthy injury absence, playing at left-back during the second half.
Transfer interest in Hauge
Sunderland have reportedly added Bodø/Glimt attacker Jens Petter Hauge to their list of players to monitor. Reports suggest the Black Cats are keeping tabs on the Norway international, who has also attracted attention from Leeds United and Hull City. Hauge, reportedly rated at around £15m, has rebuilt his reputation since returning to Norway.
