Lee Johnson hails 'top drawer' Aiden McGeady as he gives big update on Sunderland winger's availability

McGeady’s involvement, at least in terms of a starting berth, was under question given that the winger was one starting appearance away from triggering an extra year in the contract agreed in the summer of 2019.

The club were reluctant to activate that given the uncertainty over what division they will be in next season, especially as the winger is comfortably one of the club’s most significant earners/

However, Johnson said that the 34-year-old would be available as the Black Cats seek to overturn a 2-0 deficit, strongly hinting that McGeady has waived his right to the extension.

“It's all good news," said Johnson.

"I have had the option to play Aiden McGeady from the start in every game, and that will continue to happen.

"McGeady is available to start tomorrow.

"It's difficult for me to reveal contract scenarios because it's not my place, it's not fair on the player.

"All I'll say is that Aiden has been top drawer throughout my tenure, he understands the situation, and he has proved his class yet again.

"He goes into this game wanting to do well for the football club, and for me it cements him being a quality human and a quality professional that I have the option to pick him."

Johnson also confirmed that Denver Hume is out of Saturday’s second leg, after being substituted in the early exchanges of Wednesday night’s game with a hamstring injury.

Hume would also miss the final at Wembley next weekend were the Black Cats able to seal their progression with a comeback win.

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