Blackpool's Arsenal loanee is open to an extended stay

The Arsenal defender’s loan spell is currently due to end on January 31, but Pool boss Neil Critchley recently revealed to The Gazette that tentative talks had already taken place over extending it.

Should that be the case, no-one will be more delighted than Ballard.

“I’ve probably learned the most in my career in a relatively short period – I’ve had a lot of ups and downs. That’s why I’ve come out on loan, to experience what the real football world is like.

“I want to keep performing well and hopefully I’ll get the opportunity to keep playing – and hopefully it will be until the end of the season.

“I’m enjoying the people, they’re really friendly. I’m not feeling homesick or trying to run home on every day off, I quite enjoy being up here.

“I’ve never really played up north before but there’s beautiful scenery around here and I’m staying in a nice apartment.

“I’m feeling really settled and really enjoying my football.”

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