Adam Johnson will remain available for selection despite alleged child sex offences

Sunderland released a statement Friday in which they confirmed that winger Adam Johnson will remain available for selection despite being charged with three offences of sexual activity with a child under 16 years old, plus one offence of grooming.

The statement, which was published by the Sunderland Echo, read: "Following yesterday's statement from Durham Constabulary, the club recognises that the formal legal process must take its course and whilst our position remains unchanged, we will keep the matter under review. The club will not be making any further comment."

Johnson, who was arrested March 2 on suspicion of having sex with a 15-year-old, was formally charged Thursday by Durham Police and will appear at Peterlee Magistrates' Court on May 20.

A statement was also released by the Professional Footballers' Association, which read: "Given that this is an ongoing legal matter it would not be appropriate to comment specifically on the case, however we would emphasise that just like any other individual, Adam is entitled to a fair hearing. We are not in a position to make any further comment."

- With h/t to the Guardian