Sunderland boss Gus Poyet defends decision to substitute Adam Johnson

Sunderland head coach Gus Poyet has hit back at those who criticised him for substituting Adam Johnson during Saturday's 1-0 defeat to Liverpool.

A number of fans were confused by Poyet's decision to remove Johnson from play and replace him with youngster Mikael Mandron, who made his first appearance under the Uruguayan boss.

"People do not have a clue," The Chronicle quotes Poyet as saying. "I don't care if what they think because if Mika scores you do not ask me that question.

"It is very easy when the game is over. I think it was the right decision It was at the point where he (Johnson) could not go past people because he was so tired."

The Black Cats have secured victory just once at the Stadium of Light this season so far.