Zak Johnson, a Sunderland teenager, has joined National League Hartlepool United on loan. The 18-year-old signed a new three-year deal with the Black Cats earlier this month, keeping him at the club until the summer of 2026, and he has now been granted permission to join Pools on a one-month loan deal to acquire first-team experience.
Johnson will be able to play for Sunderland’s U21 team in the Premier League 2 season as part of the loan agreement. “This move provides Zak with an excellent opportunity to further his development,” Sunderland academy boss Robin Nicholls stated.
“He’s had a really good few seasons, and he can take that momentum to Hartlepool.” The National League is an excellent grade of football, and Zak now faces the challenge of breaking into a team near the top of the division.
“We are looking forward to following his progress.”
Johnson made his senior debut for Sunderland as a substitute in the EFL Trophy win against Manchester United U21s at the Stadium of Light in October 2021 while still a first-year scholar, and he made his first senior start this season on Wearside in the Carabao Cup first round tie against Crewe Alexandra, which the Black Cats drew 1-1 before losing on penalties. He was named to the Black Cats’ bench for last season’s Championship victory over Birmingham City but did not play.
He has played for Sunderland’s U21 team this season as well as the previous two.