AliousZak Johnson, a product of Sunderland’s youth system, recently shared his thoughts on his 14-year journey with the Academy of Light.
The 20-year-old defender secured a loan switch to Notts County in January after regularly featuring in Regis Le Bris’ first-team matchday squads this season.
He even made a substitute appearance in Sunderland’s FA Cup third-round loss to Stoke City when Aji Alese was sidelined by injury.
Johnson’s latest move follows previous temporary spells at Hartlepool United and Irish side Dundalk FC, and he’ll now see out the 2024-25 season at Meadow Lane, where he’s already made eight League Two appearances for his new team.
Recalling his early days, Johnson said, “I can still picture myself as a young kid stepping through those doors, instantly feeling like it was where I was meant to be.
It was an incredible experience to join something so meaningful, and right then, I knew I had to seize every opportunity.”
He credited the Academy’s staff for their invaluable guidance, noting, “The coaches were fantastic from day one.
They didn’t just teach us the game—they instilled lessons about respect, commitment, and relentless effort. Those principles have shaped me and stayed with me ever since.”
Johnson progressed through the ranks alongside peers like Oli Bainbridge and Ben Middlemas, forming a tight-knit group that weathered highs and lows together.
“We’ve shared countless moments—practices, games, tough times—and it’s amazing that we’re still part of the same club,” he remarked.
Thinking back to his Sunderland first-team debut, he added, “That moment was unreal. Stepping onto the pitch in that red and white kit, feeling the weight of what it means to the supporters and the club—it’s a memory I’ll cherish forever. It made every ounce of effort worthwhile.”
His loan experiences at Hartlepool, Ascot, Dundalk, and now Notts County have been crucial stepping stones, with Johnson gaining valuable exposure as an England youth international.
“Going on loan has been huge for my development,” he explained. “It’s let me explore different approaches to the game and test myself in unfamiliar settings. But wherever I’ve gone, the core values I picked up at Sunderland have never left me.”
Johnson views the Academy of Light as the bedrock of his identity, saying, “It laid the groundwork for who I am today. It’s not just about becoming a skilled player—it’s about growing into a solid person, too. I’m proud of that.
I owe so much to the Academy for equipping me to chase my ambitions. I’m still growing, still grinding, and still striving to reach my peak.”
Commenting on Johnson’s January loan departure, Sunderland’s academy manager, Robin Nicholls, stated, “Zak’s reached a point where he’s gathered some fantastic experience—two senior loans and a call-up to the youth international setup.
We’re thrilled he’ll be with Stuart Maynard’s Notts County for the rest of the season, and we’re confident he’ll play a key part in helping them hit their targets.”
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