Soccer

Sunderland winger Adam Johnson ruled out of FA Cup replay after thumb surgery

‘It’s not serious, but I need the wound to heal. It’s the risk of infection that’s keeping me out’

Adam Johnson of Sunderland will miss the club’s FA Cup replay with Fulham. Photograph: Ian Horrocks/Getty Images
Adam Johnson of Sunderland will miss the club’s FA Cup replay with Fulham. Photograph: Ian Horrocks/Getty Images
Tue Feb 03 2015 - 11:12

Sunderland winger Adam Johnson is out of Tuesday night's FA Cup fourth-round replay at Fulham after undergoing surgery.

The 27-year-old midfielder has had a minor operation on a thumb problem and will miss the game at Craven Cottage, although his absence is expected to be brief.

Johnson told the Sunderland Echo: “Unfortunately I won’t be there. I’m getting an operation on my thumb. I’ll be missing this one.

“I just have to get it done. It’s not a serious thing, but I need the wound to heal. It’s the risk of infection that’s keeping me out. It’s the best time to do it with the games coming up, though.

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“I love playing at Craven Cottage so I’m disappointed to miss it, but I have to have it done, so hopefully the lads can get through without me.”

Johnson will join Lee Cattermole on the sidelines as he continues his recovery from a knee problem, although head coach Gus Poyet will have Jack Rodwell at his disposal once again following his return from a one-match ban.