Sunderland defender Zak Johnson has joined Notts County on loan for the remainder of the season.

The 20-year-old defender links up with the League Two side, who are currently sitting in sixth position and pushing for promotion.

Johnson has trained with Sunderland's senior squad on a regular basis this season, and made senior appearances in both the League Cup defeat to Preston and last weekend’s FA Cup loss to Stoke City.

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Having previously had loan spells with Hartlepool United and Dundalk, Johnson will now spend the remainder of the campaign at Meadow Lane.

Sunderland academy manager, Robin Nicholls, said: “Zak is at a stage in his career where he has gained some excellent experiences, with two senior loans and a youth international selection under his belt.

“We are delighted that he will be spending the second half of the season with Stuart’s side and we firmly believe that he will be able to play an important role in Notts County achieving their goals.”

Meanwhile, Sunderland U18s returned to Premier League action with a 3-0 victory over Derby County on Saturday. Goals from Joe Neild, Marcus Neill and Finn Geragusian secured victory on the road. Ben Metcalf also pulled off an impressive penalty save to ensure the clean sheet.

Lead Coach, Fin Lynch was pleased with the overall performance and said: “The reaction from when we played Derby in the FA Youth Cup was really pleasing. We defended both boxes well, as well as being clinical in the right moments. It was a good reaction from the lads who have had some time off over the break. We must take this momentum and continue the upward trajectory.”

The young Black Cats now sit fourth in the league table with the next fixture on January 25 against Nottingham Forest.