Sunderland defender Dan Ballard insists that Joe Gelhardt has been impressive for the club.

The Leeds United loanee has stepped in after Sunderland were without Ross Stewart due to an Achilles injury.

The 20-year-old has been the club's only out and out striker in recent weeks.

“I think Rosco is such a top player it's always going to be a miss without him," Ballard told the Sunderland Echo.

“But I think Joffy has done brilliant since he's come in. He does hold the ball up really well, he battles and links the play nicely.

“He's maybe not as tall as Rosco but he's certainly strong and does a lot to link the play."