Zak Johnson

Zak Johnson (born 30 July 2004) is a professional footballer who plays as a centre-back for EFL Championship side Sunderland.

Playing career
Johnson began his playing career at his hometown club Sunderland and made his first appearance in the EFL Trophy on 13 October 2021 coming on as a substitute in a 2–1 victory against Manchester United U21s. At 16 years and 141 days old, this appearance made Zak the youngest outfield player to play for Sunderland in almost 50 years.

On 1 July 2022, it was announced Johnson had signed his first professional contract with Sunderland on a deal lasting until 2025.

On 8 August 2023, Johnson made his first start for Sunderland in an EFL Cup defeat against Crewe Alexandra. A month later, he signed a new deal until 2026.

Johnson moved to National League side Hartlepool United in September 2023 on a one-month loan deal. On 26 October, this loan deal was extended until January 2024. On 5 January 2024, it was announced that Johnson's loan spell with Hartlepool had ended.

On 14 February 2024, Johnson signed for League of Ireland Premier Division club Dundalk on loan. Johnson won the Supporters' Club Player of the Month for March 2024. He returned to Sunderland in June 2024. Johnson said of his loan spell: "I have loved every minute of my time here. The lessons in maturity and self-development have been so valuable, they will stay with me for the rest of my life."

International career
In June 2023, Johnson received a call-up to the England U18s squad for an upcoming trip to Portugal.