Dan Ballard says Granit Xhaka’s arrival has transformed standards at Sunderland and helped the newly promoted side establish themselves in the Premier League’s top half.
The Switzerland midfielder was among several summer signings following Sunderland’s promotion via the Championship play-offs. The 33-year-old joined from Bayer Leverkusen and was immediately handed the captain’s armband, bringing leadership and experience to the squad.
Sunderland have made an impressive return to the top flight and sit eighth in the table, just two points off the top four, after Sunday’s 1-0 derby victory over Newcastle.
Ballard, who came through Arsenal’s academy during Xhaka’s time at the Gunners, told Football Focus that the midfielder’s influence was clear from day one.
“He’s an amazing guy,” Ballard said. “I was a bit surprised when we signed him. I didn’t think one person could affect the team the way he’s done.
“From minute one, the standards really rose because he does everything to 100%.”
The 26-year-old defender added that Xhaka’s professionalism has set the tone across the squad, from the gym to the training pitch.
“He’s won titles and played hundreds of Premier League games, yet he’s still giving everything in training, even in cold and wet conditions,” Ballard said. “If he’s doing it, there’s no excuse for the rest of us.
“It’s lifted everyone.”
