Adam Johnson to return to Sunderland training after suspension lifted• Johnson on bail after arrest over underage sex allegation
• Winger could play for Sunderland against West Ham on Saturday
• Adam Johnson has bail extended to 23 April
Adam Johnson is to return to training with Sunderland after having his suspension lifted. Photograph: Mark Runnacles/Getty Images
Adam Johnson is to return to training with Sunderland after the club lifted the suspension it imposed on the winger following his arrest on suspicion of sexual activity with a 15-year-old girl.
It means the 27-year-old, currently on police bail, is in contention for involvement in Dick Advocaat’s managerial debut with Sunderland on Saturday when the struggling side travel to West Ham United.
Johnson was suspended by directors shortly after being arrested at his County Durham home on 2 March. After questioning he was released on police bail but when, on Tuesday, it was extended until Thursday April 23, Sunderland announced they would be “reviewing” their position regarding his ban.
On Wednesday they released a statement confirming he was free to train and play while the police investigation continues. “The club has discussed the current position in detail with both the PFA (Professional Footballers’ Association) and Adam’s representatives,” it said.
“In line with those discussions we recognise that the player is entitled to re-commence his duties with the club while the legal process continues. He will therefore return to training.
“The club’s own investigation cannot continue until the conclusion of the legal process. Sunderland AFC will make no further comment on the matter due to the ongoing police investigation.”
It is understood that Advocaat, who succeeded the sacked Gus Poyet on Tuesday, believes Johnson’s contribution could prove vital as Sunderland, separated from the bottom three by a single point, strive to avoid relegation. The former England winger has missed his team’s past two games but has been working out daily at home with a specialist fitness trainer supplied by the club.
As part of their ongoing inquiries into the matter officers from Durham Constabulary recently raided dressing rooms at both the Stadium of Light and the Academy of Light, where Sunderland train.
The police have confirmed that investigation remains “very much live” and said: “Sunderland AFC informed us this morning of their decision, which of course is a matter entirely for the club. The police investigation remains very much live and ongoing and a man remains on bail while inquiries continue.
“We would once again urge those posting on social media to be aware of the effects their comments can have. We accept rumour and speculation may be inevitable, but many of the comments have been distressing to the complainant, her family and people connected with the investigation.”
Another winger, or forward, Duncan Watmore has been promoted from Sunderland’s development squad to train with Advocaat’s first-teamers and could also be in contention for the visit to Upton Park. Watmore is regarded as the brightest spark in the Under-21 side but was consistently overlooked by Poyet.
Guardian
