Footballer Adam Johnson arrested over underage sex claim

Sunderland footballer Adam Johnson has been bailed after earlier being arrested on suspicion of sexual activity with a girl under the age of 16.

A police officer came out of Peterlee station and told reporters that Johnson had been bailed and was no longer there.

Sunderland AFC confirmed it had suspended Johnson pending the outcome of the police investigation.

A statement said: "Sunderland AFC has confirmed that Adam Johnson has been suspended from the club, pending the outcome of a police investigation. No further comment will be made at the present time."

Johnson had been due to travel with the rest of the squad to Humberside this afternoon for tomorrow night's Barclays Premier League fixture at Hull.

Speaking about Johnson's arrest, a neighbour told The Sun newspaper:

Before his release on bail, Durham Police said Johnson was held in custody over the allegations.

A spokesperson said: "A 27-year-old man was arrested earlier today on suspicion of sexual activity with a girl under 16. He is helping officers with their enquiries."

Born in Sunderland, the winger has represented his country 12 times and also played for Middlesbrough and Manchester City.