Former Sunderland striker Marco Gabbiadini has heaped praise on centre-backs Dan Ballard and Omar Alderete following their commanding performance in the Black Cats’ 2-0 win over Wolves at the weekend.

The pair anchored Regis Le Bris’ defence superbly, forming the core of a back four that also featured Nordi Mukiele and Trai Hume in the full-back positions. The reshuffled defensive setup paid dividends, with Hume and Mukiele even combining for Sunderland’s opening goal — the former delivering a precise assist for the Frenchman midway through the first half.

While Gabbiadini acknowledged the contributions of the full-backs, it was the partnership between Ballard and Alderete that most impressed him. The duo made a combined 10 interceptions and dealt with everything Wolves threw their way.

Speaking on BBC Radio Newcastle’s Total Sport, Gabbiadini said:

“Wolves saw plenty of the ball and played a lot of nice football, but what did they really do with it? Not much. You can have all the possession in the world, but if you don’t make it count in the final third, it’s meaningless. Ballard and Alderete were immense — they cleared everything, headed everything, and never switched off. It was incredible to watch.”

Asked about Le Bris’ defensive changes, the former Sunderland favourite applauded the manager’s tactical flexibility.

“It definitely worked,” Gabbiadini added. “Mukiele’s adaptability makes things easier. Every fan loves Ballard — he’s a proper defender, and pairing him with Alderete gave us two players who just love defending. Maybe that’s why Le Bris went with them, especially against a Wolves side that like to put balls into the box.”

He also commended Hume’s versatility and the fluidity of Sunderland’s movement in possession.

“Hume can play either side and still affect the game. For that first goal, he was practically an attacking midfielder on the edge of the box. Mukiele cut through their defence like a winger. That sort of rotation and energy shows how well-drilled this team is.”

It was a complete performance that underlined Sunderland’s growing maturity under Le Bris — solid at the back, sharp in transition, and increasingly confident against Premier League opposition.