Zak Johnson calls York City switch ‘the perfect move’ after promotion | OneFootball

Former Sunderland defender Zak Johnson has joined York City permanently, saying their return to the EFL was central to his decision after a loan that ended in promotion.

The Academy of Light graduate made four senior appearances for Sunderland, debuting as a late substitute in a Papa Johns’ Trophy win over a Manchester United side featuring Joe Hugill and Charlie Savage. He later appeared in the FA Cup, coming on during the third round defeat at Stoke City in January 2025. Loans at Notts County, then at York from November last year, followed.

After helping the Minstermen clinch the National League title, the versatile defender signed last week for an undisclosed fee as he prepares for League Two. He believes it is the perfect next step.

“Promotion, I feel like if circumstances went differently and we didn’t get promoted, I feel like I wouldn’t be sat here now - but the fact we did get promoted and I enjoyed every single minute means I can get EFL football and I can hopefully kick on and develop as a player. It was just the perfect move for me.”

He told the Minstermen website.

Source: Sunderland Echo