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Adam Johnson named in Sunderland squad after being charged

Dick Advocaat, manager of Sunderland, speaks with Adam Johnson
Image: Adam Johnson will remain available for Dick Advocaat

Adam Johnson has been included in the Sunderland squad after being charged with three offences of sexual activity with a child under 16 and one of grooming.

Johnson was charged on Thursday after answering bail and is due to appear before County Durham Magistrates Court on May 20.

The 27-year-old was arrested on March 2 and initially suspended but he was later allowed to resume training and has since made three appearances from the bench.

Sunderland said in a brief statement the England international will remain available for selection for manager Dick Advocaat while legal proceedings continue.

The club confirmed: “Following yesterday’s statement from Durham Constabulary, the club recognises that the formal legal process must take its course and whilst our position remains unchanged, we will keep the matter under review.

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Dick Advocaat says Adam Johnson is in his squad for the Stoke game and could be selected.

“The club will not be making any further comment.”

Advocaat later confirmed Johnson would be available for selection: "He still has to come in, but in principle if he feels okay, then he will be a member of the squad."

Asked if it was a difficult situation for him to deal with as a coach, Advocaat said: "No, because the club made a statement about it and I stay behind that, and we will wait and see what the future will bring."

Sunderland-born Johnson joined the club from Manchester City for £10m in August 2012 and scored the winning goal in this season's Tyne-Wear derby against Newcastle at St James' Park.

Advocaat’s side are just a point above the relegation zone in the Premier League and travel to Stoke on Saturday.

The players' union, the Professional Footballers' Association, has urged people to allow justice to take its course.

A PFA statement said: "Given that this is an ongoing legal matter, it would not be appropriate to comment specifically on the case. However, we would emphasise that just like any other individual, Adam is entitled to a fair hearing.

"We are not in a position to make any further comment."

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