According to a report from the Sunderland Echo, Sunderland’s young defender Zak Johnson will extend his stay at Hartlepool United until January. Initially, in September, Sunderland permitted him to leave on a one-month deal. The 19-year-old Johnson, who primarily plays as a centre-back, has made quite an impression with Hartlepool in the National League, featuring in five league matches for them.
In this recent development reported by the Sunderland Echo, Johnson is set to continue playing for John Askey’s side until the New Year. His parent club, Sunderland, will then assess his progress when the next transfer window opens. Johnson has spent his entire career with Sunderland, progressing through their youth academy and participating in various youth levels.
He has made two appearances for Sunderland’s first team and is under contract with them until the summer of 2026.
Currently, he isn’t a prominent figure in Tony Mowbray’s senior team due to the surplus of options in his position. Hence, he was loaned out to Hartlepool last month. This temporary move to Hartlepool provides Johnson with valuable playing time and supports his development. Although he has played 36 times for Sunderland’s U21s team in various competitions, playing in the National League offers more beneficial experience compared to youth football.
It’s worth noting that Mowbray’s team recently suffered a 2-1 defeat to Stoke City and has a forthcoming away fixture against Leicester City.