Throughout Friday, we will be revealing former Sunderland defender Danny Collins’ top five Black Cats central defenders of the past 50 years.

In fifth place, Collins has opted for current player Dan Ballard, who was the goalscoring hero in last season’s dramatic play-off win over Coventry.

“You see what he brings to the team,” said Collins.

“Big call to bring him back in against Coventry and he was outstanding, best player on the pitch for the two games, and again outstanding at Wembley in the final. Old school, rugged centre-back. I like watching him out there.”

Since joining Sunderland from Arsenal in July 2022, the 25-year-old has made 89 appearances, and fought back from a hamstring injury late in the season to play a key role in the successful play-off campaign.

Jonny Evans, who had two loan spells at the Stadium of Light from Manchester United between 2006 and 2008. was selected in fourth place.

“I had the pleasure of playing aside him and even at that age, the composure of the young lad coming in was impressive,” Collins said on Evans.

“Then he came back in the season after we got promoted and progressed. The club were looking to buy him but United could see he was a player and kept him and he won numerous trophies and won 107 caps for Northern Ireland.

“Fantastic player – 37 now and still about it.”

Listen to Collins’ selections here

Or come back later on Thursday to discover who Collins considers the best centre-backs to play for Sunderland.