Arsenal youth centre-back Daniel Ballard helped Blackpool keep another clean sheet this weekend, returning from injury in good form.

Loan defender Daniel Ballard missed out on the last few games for Blackpool with a knock, but he returned to the squad and the starting lineup against Accrington Stanley on Saturday.

Blackpool benefitted from his presence, keeping a clean sheet as he played 90 minutes. The centre-back won 10 of his 12 individual duels, made five clearances, blocked one shot, and made one interception in a busy afternoon.

Ballard has generally impressed when given the chance so far this season. He’s made six appearances (all starts) for Blackpool, helping to keep four clean sheets and concede just once in each of the other two games.

The 21-year-old has also become a regular with Northern Ireland, earning five caps over the last three international breaks.

He’s still battling to stay fit after his serious knee injury last campaign, which is understandable. But it doesn’t look like there’s any doubt Blackpool will want to extend Ballard’s loan deal to the end of the season when the January transfer window opens.