The Professional Footballers' Association has released a statement regarding the news that Sunderland winger Adam Johnson has been charged with alleged child sex offences.

Durham Police confirmed on Thursday that the 27-year-old has been charged with three offences of alleged sexual activity with a child under 16, and one offence of grooming.

The Premier League star was arrested on March 2 on allegations that he had had sex with a girl aged 15.

A statement from the PFA read: "Given that this is an ongoing legal matter it would not be appropriate to comment specifically on the case, however we would emphasise that just like any other individual, Adam is entitled to a fair hearing. We are not in a position to make any further comment."

Johnson, whose girlfriend Stacey Flounders gave birth to the couple's daughter earlier this year, was suspended by the Black Cats for just over two weeks while the investigation was ongoing.