Sunderland sacks Johnson

England International Adam Johnson has been sacked by Premier League club Sunderland after he pleaded guilty to sexual activity with a child.

"In light of Adam Johnson's guilty pleas, the club has today terminated his contract with immediate effect," Sunderland said in a statement.

"The club will make no further comment."

Former Manchester City star Johnson, who joined the Black Cats for more than STG10 million ($A20 million) in 2012 and earns a reported STG50,000 ($A100,000) a week scored in his side's 2-2 draw with Liverpool last Saturday.

He pleaded guilty to one count of sexual activity with a child, but denied two other charges, when he appeared at Bradford Crown Court.

The 28-year-old winger, who has played 12 times for England, also admitted one count of grooming a girl under the age of 16.