Sunderland have announced they have terminated the contract of midfielder, Adam Johnson, with immediate effect.
The 28-year-old former England winger’s case is due to continue at Bradford Crown Court on Friday, two days after he admitted one charge of grooming and another of sexual activity with a 15-year-old girl but denied two further counts of sexual activity with a child.
A club statement said: “In light of Adam Johnson’s guilty pleas, the club has today terminated his contract with immediate effect. The club will make no further comment.”
The Black Cats are understood to have been shocked at Wednesday’s guilty pleas, having allowed their £10m signing from Manchester City to resume his career after initially suspending him following his arrest in March last year.
Johnson’s last game for Sunderland was the 2-2 draw with Liverpool last weekend where he scored.
Earlier, German sportswear manufacturer, Adidas, announced it has terminated its boot contract with Johnson.
“Adidas can confirm that it has terminated its contract with footballer Adam Johnson with immediate effect,” a statement read.
“This follows his guilty pleas entered earlier this week.”
Apart from the Black Cats and Manchester City, Johnson has also kitted for Middlesbrough, Watford and Leeds United.
