Robinho move cost Sunderland dear in Johnson move
Sunderland come up against the one that got away tomorrow.
The Echo understands Adam Johnson, from Easington, favoured a move to the Stadium of Light for most of the January transfer window.
Despite persistent reports of interest from Chelsea, tomorrow's opponents Manchester City were always the biggest competition facing Black Cats boss Steve Bruce as Johnson was preparing to leave Middlesbrough.
And it was the departure of Brazil international Robinho on loan to Santos that ultimately ended Sunderland's hopes of landing the England Under-21 international.
The Wearsiders hoped they could land Johnson for less than 5m and sources close to the player say he was favoured remaining in the North East because he felt he would get more first-team starts than at Eastlands.
Misfit Robinho's exit left City short of a wide player and they upped the ante, agreeing a deal that could net Boro close to 10million.
Many of Johnson's friends and family will be at the Stadium of Light tomorrow supporting Sunderland. And how they – and Steve Bruce – would have loved to see the 22-year-old in red and white stripes.
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Weather for Sunderland
Wednesday 08 February 2012
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: -2 C to 2 C
Wind Speed: 16 mph
Wind direction: South
Tomorrow
Light rain
Temperature: 1 C to 3 C
Wind Speed: 9 mph
Wind direction: South
