Zak Johnson has extended his contract at Sunderland.
The club have confirmed that the 19-year-old has put pen to paper on a new three-year deal and he admitted that he believes Wearside is the best place for him to develop as a footballer.
Johnson joined Sunderland at eight years old and has progressed through the ranks, impressing at every level.
The teenager made his senior debut against Manchester United in the Papa John’s Trophy in 2021, breaking a 50-year-old outfield record on Wearside as he took to the pitch at only 16 years and 141 days.
Johnson went onto make his first senior start in this season’s Carabao Cup defeat to Crewe Alexandra and is looking to force his way into the first team set-up after becoming a regular for the U-21s.
The defender’s campaign has got off to a brilliant start, earning himself a contract extension following his start against Crewe less than a month ago.
Zak Johnson wants to continue his development at Sunderland
Explaining why he decided to sign a new contract with the Black Cats, Johnson said: “I am delighted to extend my stay here at Sunderland. This is my home, and it has been for over 10 years now.
“I’d like to thank all my team-mates and all the coaches that have helped me develop into the player I am today. There is a still a long way to go, but I know this is the right place for me to continue my development.”
The club are clearly very excited to tie Johnson down too, with Academy Manager Robin Nicholls adding: “Zak has had an outstanding few seasons with the Academy. He has consistently performed to an exceptional level, leading to him being stretched into older age groups. This led to external recognition when he was selected to play, and captain, England Under-18s in their most recent international camp in June 2023.
“He is someone who always displays the approach and dedication that we believe indicates a strong future with the Club.”
Johnson will now be eager to become one of the many young players that have excelled under Tony Mowbray in recent years, with the likes of Jewison Bennette, Chris Rigg and Jack Clarke enjoying an exceptional few days on Wearside.