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

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.

“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.