Leeds sent the 20-year-old centre forward on loan to Sunderland in January and he has made four appearances for the Black Cats so far.
On Saturday, Gelhardt helped Sunderland snatch a point from Bristol City in the 1-1 draw, where he laid on an assist for Jack Clarke’s 59th minute strike.
Ballard praised the Leeds loanee for his link-up play and is of the opinion that Gelhardt has done very well since his arrival at the club.
The Black Cats star also added that Gelardt may not be as tall as Stewart but is very strong and stressed that the player battles well with opposition players to help the team.
“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.”
Gelhardt is yet to find the back of the net for Sunderland and will be hoping to get on the scoresheet when Tony Mowbray’s side take on Rotherham on Tuesday.
