OH NO: “I’m selfish” Sunderland youth GEM mount warning to Club owner revealing he needs to grow and City of Light is below Amid Player desperately aiming to betray boyhood Club.
Zak Johnson, a 19-year-old Sunderland defender and England youth international, has a clear vision for his career progression in the 2024-25 season. After gaining valuable experience through loans at Hartlepool United and Dundalk last season, Johnson has returned to Sunderland and recently featured in a match against Blackpool.
Despite this opportunity, Johnson emphasizes the importance of regular playing time for his development. He believes that consistent involvement in senior men’s football is crucial and is open to another loan move if it means more game time.
Johnson expressed his views to The Echo, stating that being a squad player at Sunderland wouldn’t suffice for his career goals. He stressed the need to be “selfish” as a player, prioritizing consistent game time and minutes on the pitch. His experiences on loan have reinforced his desire for regular first-team football.
The young defender is taking an active role in shaping his career path. He has already had discussions with Sunderland about his future, making it clear that he wants to play regularly. Johnson sees himself as having outgrown the “youngster” label and is ready to take charge of his career direction.
He’s open to staying at Sunderland if he can secure significant playing time, but is equally prepared to go on loan again to further his development. Johnson’s main priority is to be in a situation where he can earn the trust of his manager and play as many games as possible, regardless of the team.