Embo Ell of an influence on me - Dan

NEW signing Daniel Ballard has revealed the key role Sunderland’s Elliot Embleton played in his move from Arsenal to Wearside.

Ballard joined the Black Cats on Thursday on a three-year contract, with the option of a further 12 months - becoming the club’s first new face of the summer.

The Northern Ireland defender says Embleton - who played alongside Ballard when the pair were on loan at Blackpool the season before last and won promotion from League One through the play-offs - was hugely instrumental in his move.

He said: “I was extremely close to Embo at Blackpool - we spent a lot of time together and had a successful year at Blackpool, winning promotion.

“I have been speaking to Embo especially a lot recently and he has been convincing me to make the move.”

Embleton is not the only familiar face for Ballard coming into the dressing room at the Academy of Light, captain Corry Evans having played alongside him at international level.

He added: “I have played with Corry for Northern Ireland and it is nice having a few mates coming into the team to help me settle down quicker.

“That was also a big factor in wanting to come here.”

Sunderland had been tracking Ballard since the latter stages of last season but had to see off significant competition for his signature, the 22-year-old very close to signing for Burnley at one stage while Millwall - where he spent last season on loan were also interested.

Ballard said: “Sunderland reached out towards the end of the season so it has been a long time coming.

“Since I heard the club was interested I have been looking forward to getting up here and hoping they could sort a deal out between the clubs and I am just delighted it has all gone through.

“It feels amazing to be here. The fan base, the size of the club, the history of the club - you can see it is a Premier League club with the stadium, the set-up, the fans - so that was very appealing.

“Getting up here and having a look around, getting a feel for the place, it seems an exciting place to come and play.”