Adam Johnson was charged with three offenses of sexual activity with a child under 16 and one of grooming on Thursday. Initially arrested on March 2, Johnson will appear at Peterlee magistrates court in County Durham on May 20.
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That, however, won't keep the 27-year-old from appearing at Britannia Stadium on Saturday.
Sunderland released a statement to the Sunderland Echo (via the Guardian), standing behind their player and the legal process.
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"Following yesterday's statement from Durham Constabulary, the club recognizes that the formal legal process must take its course and whilst our position remains unchanged, we will keep the matter under review."
"Adam Johnson will remain available for selection by Sunderland AFC despite being charged with child sex offenses. The club will not be making any further comment."
Manager Dick Advocaat was also comital, leaving the decision to play solely on Johnson.
"He still has to come in," Advocaat said. "But in principle if he feels OK, then he will be a member of the squad."
Johnson has failed to make a lasting impact at Sunderland this campaign. He boasts just four goals in 27 league appearances and is averaging 2.6 turnovers. Sunderland haven't fared any better in the table, either, entering the weekend just one point from safety. A pivotal match this weekend awaits, making Johnson's availability, despite porous form, a pivotal element.
Sunderland's visit to Stoke-on-Trent on Saturday is scheduled for 10 a.m. ET and will be broadcasted online over NBC Sports network.
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