Advocaat ready to pick Johnson for Arsenal visit
SUNDERLAND manager Dick Advocaat is considering selecting Adam Johnson for tonight’s Premier League fixture at Arsenal, just 48 hours after the winger appeared in court to face child sex charges.
The Black Cats need just one draw from their remaining two games to avoid relegation, while a point would also be enough for their hosts to effectively clinch third place. Johnson’s lawyer indicated on Monday that the England international intends to deny all charges of sexual activity with a girl under 16 and grooming.
“He’s in the squad and when you are in the squad, there’s always a chance you will start,” said Advocaat. “Adam is a player who can do something different for us.”
Arsenal defender Laurent Koscielny is a doubt following a bout of flu, which would mean Gabriel partnering Per Mertesacker at centre-back.