Positive prediction given regarding Arsenal player currently on loan at Millwall | OneFootball

Millwall centre-back Daniel Ballard had surgery on his knee last week, with the Arsenal loanee not expected back for a few months still.

The 22-year-old has almost instantaneously become an integral member of the Millwall squad since his move from north to south-east London.

Ballard has appeared 19 times in the Championship for the Lions this season, starting every game he has been involved in.

The young defender has seemingly been an instant success at The Den, following an impressive spell to help Blackpool to the second-tier last time out.

Speaking to News at Den about Ballard and the extent of his injury, Millwall boss Gary Rowett said: “With a fair wind we’d expect Dan back in around three months, Lenny’s going to be in a similar situation.

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“If you look at that that’s going to be into February.

“We’ll have a look at that situation because they both play in the same position and it leaves us a little bit lighter in those areas.

“The expectation is, he’s done really well for us and we want him to come back and finish the season with us if that’s a possibility.

“I think Arsenal have been really pleased with the loan, I think Dan has been pleased with it. At this moment in time that will be the aim unless something changes with that.

“I think the operation went well and we’re hoping he’s fine.”

Ballard is shaping up to be an excellent defender who looks on course to enjoy a bright and exciting career.

He proved himself in League One last year, gaining a lot of praise for his consistent performances and maturity.

The 22-year-old has since emerged as a Championship starter and a regular for Northern Ireland, where he is continuing to rise on an upward trajectory.

Ballard will be hoping that this spell on the sidelines will not hinder his progress both domestically or on the international stage, but on reflection, he will take major positives from his time in the second-tier thus far.