Sunderland’s promising young defender Zak Johnson has been gaining significant experience in the first team squad this season, but U21s coach Graeme Murty has offered a measured assessment of the 19-year-old’s progress.
Speaking to the Sunderland Echo after Sunderland U21s’ recent 2-0 victory over Lyon in the Premier League International Cup, Murty was keen to praise Johnson’s qualities while also stressing that the teenager still has plenty of development ahead of him.
Murty’s comments come after Johnson’s involvement in four of Sunderland’s eight Championship matchday squads so far this season, a reflection of both his potential and the club’s need for cover in the full-back positions. Injuries and a lack of depth in these areas have forced head coach Regis Le Bris to turn to his younger players, with Johnson being one of those benefiting from the opportunity. The 19-year-old also featured for a full 90 minutes in the EFL Cup defeat to Preston North End back in August, further adding to his senior experience.
However, despite these appearances, Murty was keen to keep expectations in check. “He’s got lots to do,” Murty explained. “He’s a very, very young man. He’s got lots of development to do. He’s had a couple of experiences out on loan. He’s a very, very driven person. He’s a maximiser of his time, and he’s a radiator for others to help them deliver their best.”
Johnson’s development over the past year has been shaped by two loan spells, first with Hartlepool United and then with Irish side Dundalk FC, where he amassed 29 senior appearances. These experiences were crucial for the teenager, exposing him to the demands of senior football and allowing him to sharpen his skills in a competitive environment.
Reflecting on his time at Dundalk, Johnson highlighted how playing at that level has influenced his ambitions. “Now, Dundalk isn’t as high level as what we’ve just played today [in a pre-season friendly against Blackpool] and the fact that I’ve played there and I’ve felt really good and comfortable has only made me think more away from Dundalk and the Irish league,” he said.
It’s clear that Johnson is focused on pushing himself to higher levels. Earlier this summer, he addressed the possibility of another loan move, emphasising his desire to play at the highest level possible. “I’ve touched on me being selfish, and as a player, you want to play at the highest level you can,” he admitted. “Whether that’s League Two, League One, Championship, wherever, I just want to play as many games as I can.”
Despite Johnson’s aspirations, it remains unclear whether another loan move is in the immediate future. His continued involvement with the first team suggests that Sunderland see value in keeping him within their own squad for now, especially given the squad’s current injury situation.
For Murty, the key will be managing Johnson’s development carefully, ensuring that he’s given the right opportunities to grow without overwhelming him with expectations. “We’re really hopeful that he can continue his growth, continue his development and continue to absorb the lessons that he’s been exposed to,” Murty said. His words echo a cautious optimism that while Johnson has shown great promise, there’s still a way to go before he can be considered a regular fixture in the senior side.
Writer’s View
Zak Johnson’s journey so far is a familiar story in football – a young player with bags of potential, but also the need for time and patience. Murty’s comments are refreshing because they recognise both the player’s talent and the importance of not rushing his development. Too often, young players are thrust into the spotlight before they’re ready, but Sunderland seem to be managing Johnson’s progression carefully.
Johnson’s loan spells at Hartlepool and Dundalk have clearly been invaluable, giving him that crucial exposure to senior football. However, as he himself acknowledges, the goal now is to test himself at even higher levels. Whether that’s in Sunderland’s first team or on another loan, it’s clear he’s driven to succeed – and that drive will likely see him continue to improve. As with any young player, though, fans will need to be patient and allow him the time to grow into the player he’s capable of becoming.
Founder and Editor-in-Chief at The Real EFL, Gary is a passionate Lincoln City fan with extensive content creation across the Championship and EFL. He also shares expert football betting tips.
