Dom Ballard, 19, joined League One side Blackpool on loan this summer after an impressive first senior spell with Reading last season. Unfortunately, his season in Berkshire was cut short after just 11 appearances due to a Patella tendon injury that required surgery. Now on loan with Blackpool, Ballard suffered another setback, as manager Steve Bruce revealed he “popped his shoulder” during their 2-0 win over Huddersfield. Ballard’s rehabilitation is still being mapped out by Southampton, with the possibility of further surgery.
Russell Martin said “I found out this morning actually from our medical team and I am really disappointed for Dom. He’s a great kid, I know he’ll attack his rehab in the same way he did last year after a big injury. This can happen, everyone’s journey is so different and Dom was on the ascent here and getting really close, and then he gets an injury out on loan.”
Ballard faces another period of recovery, and the Southampton and Blackpool medical teams are collaborating on the next steps. Martin has faith in Ballard’s resilience, having seen him handle a major injury before.
Russell Martin said “Then has to go out on loan again and just things can happen and change so quickly in football. We’ll touch base with him today. I know the medical team have already spoken to him and the Blackpool medical team. He did with his last big injury. Of course, he’ll feel the disappointment and the hurt—we all will for him—but I’ve got no doubt what choice Dom will make and he’ll be more than fine long term.”
The length of Ballard’s absence will depend on whether he requires surgery or if the injury can heal naturally. Martin remains optimistic about Ballard’s recovery process, despite the setback.
Russell Martin said “It’s just another small setback for him. How long he is out depends if he needs an operation or if they’ll heal it naturally.”
This version groups the context around Ballard’s injury and includes Martin’s quotes to give a clearer picture of the situation.
