Blackpool have signed Arsenal defender Daniel Ballard on loan until January 2021.
Arsenal Defender Daniel Ballard Joins Blackpool on Loan
✍️ We are pleased to announce the loan signing of Arsenal defender Daniel Ballard!
➡️ https://t.co/mYzjEjHdSq pic.twitter.com/ZioktwGyrj
— Blackpool FC (@BlackpoolFC) October 5, 2020
Held in High Regard on International Stage
Daniel Ballard will be looking to make an impression with the League One side in his second taste of senior football at club level.
Ballard had initially joined Swindon Town on loan in 2019 but only made three appearances for The Robins before the spell was disrupted by injury.
The 21-year-old is clearly held in high regard, having been capped by Northern Ireland on two occasions, despite the lack of first-team games to his name.
Ballard made his Northern Ireland debut in a 1-1 UEFA Nations League draw with Romania in September 2020.
He has scored seven goals in his 59 appearances for Arsenal U18 & U23 combined. Not a bad output for a centre-back.
Blackpool find themselves in 22nd place in the League One table, having picked up just three points from four games. They will be hoping Ballard can help them strengthen at the back and climb up the table.
Looking to Grasp Every Opportunity
“I’m over the moon to be here and really excited to get started,” Ballard told the club’s official website.
“It’s a great opportunity to play for a club like Blackpool, and I’m really determined to do well here. I will offer 100% and will be aggressive and play for the shirt.
“As a young player, it’s important you grasp every opportunity you are given, and I will be doing everything I can to help this team push on and be successful whilst I am here.”
Ready for the Next Stage of His Career
“Daniel is a talented and commanding defender who will add a great deal to the group,” head coach Neil Critchley said.
“He’s gained a good football education developing through the age groups in Arsenal’s academy, going on to captain their U23 side. He also has experience on the international stage, rising through the youth levels with Northern Ireland to go on and gain full international caps.
“In coming to Blackpool, he is now ready for the next stage of his career. We are pleased to have him here and look forward to working with him during his time here.”
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