Former Sunderland defender Zak Johnson hails ‘perfect move’ after York’s EFL return | OneFootball

Zak Johnson says York City’s EFL return was central to his decision to join permanently after last season’s promotion.

The former Sunderland defender made four senior appearances, debuting in the Papa Johns’ Trophy, and later featured in an FA Cup defeat at Stoke in January 2025.

"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 was speaking to the Minstermen website.

"I think I definitely knew when I finished the season I was going to struggle leaving this place - especially with the way the season ended and how much I enjoyed my connection with the fans and how much I enjoyed spending time with the players. I knew this was a place I wanted to be and I couldn’t be happier coming back here this summer."

After loans at Notts County and then York from November, he helped the Minstermen win the National League title. York, now back in League Two, have completed his move to the LNER Community Stadium for an undisclosed fee.

Source: Sunderland Echo