Ian Wright has praised loaned-out Arsenal player Daniel Ballard on ITV (11:30pm, September 2, 2021).
What’s the story?
The Arsenal legend was impressed by Ballard’s goal for Northern Ireland in their 4-1 win against Lithuania last night.
The 21-year-old, who can operate as a central defender or as a defensive midfielder, found the back of the net in the 20th minute of the match.
Ballard, sent on loan to Millwall by Arsenal in the summer transfer window, helped Northern Ireland to a 4-1 win against Lithuania away from home in their 2022 World Cup qualifier.
Ian Wright’s verdict
Wright said about Ballard on ITV (11:30pm, September 2, 2021): “Does well by the way he stays inside the box at the far post.
“Don’t know what the defenders are doing, but fantastic. Delighted for him.
“He had gone on loan to Blackpool, he is at Millwall this season, have started all of their games.”
How did Daniel Ballard play?
Ballard was very good defensively and took his goal extremely well.
The Arsenal-owned Millwall defender was part of a back-three for Northern Ireland.
The 21-year-old was deployed on the left, and from that position, he made some important runs forward and also held his own at the back.
Ballard had a pass accuracy of 85.4%, won two headers, took 69 touches, and made two tackles, two interceptions and seven clearances.
Ballard has played five times in the Championship for Millwall so far this season.
Perhaps the youngster could establish himself in the Arsenal first-team squad next season after a successful loan spell at Millwall.
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