OFFICIAL: Sunderland capture Johnson

Sunderland last night completed their second signing of the day, capturing Manchester City winger Adam Johnson in a £10m deal.

The 25 year-old winger has agreed a four year contract with the Black Cats.

Speaking to safc.com, Johnson revealed his delight at returning to the north east:

"It feels fantastic [to be here]," admitted Johnson.

"I was born here and there have been rumours in the past about me coming here.

"Coming back to the north east and Martin O`Neill were the two main factors, especially the gaffer and listening to what he had to say to me.

"He made it clear just how much he wanted me to come here. To know that and feel wanted and appreciated made me feel that it was the right choice to sign.'

Born in Easington, County Durham, Johnson made his breakthrough with Middlesbrough in 2005, debuting in the then UEFA Cup against Sporting CP.

Shortly after the pacey winger made his full Premier League bow for 'Boro in a home win against Arsenal.

Before too long Johnson was a regular in the matchday squad with the Teesside outfit, often featuring from the bench, being named as a substitute at least.

In 2006, Johnson took in a brief six-game loan spell with Leeds United in the Championship before joining Watford on-loan the following year. It was under Aidy Boothroyd at Vicarage Road that the England international's career really took off.

After 12 games and five goals for the Hornets Johnson was re-called to the Riverside by Gareth Southgate and virtually immediately pitched into the side.

Johnson alone couldn't stop the rot and 'Boro were relegated in 2009. The following season Johnson drove the club into the Championship Play-Off's before joining Manchester City for £7m.

Life at City began well for Johnson who impressed on debut before being withdrawn through injury. His first start against Bolton saw him named Man-of-the-Match before he grabbed his first Citizen's goal against Sunderland to rescue a point for Roberto Mancini's men.

However, despite a bright start to life at the Etihad, Johnson eventually fell out favour before Martin O'Neill swooped to capture the talented winger yesterday evening.

To date Johnson has 11 full England caps, and has scored two goals for his country.

Welcome to Sunderland, Adam.

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