Adam Johnson: Sunderland midfielder pleads guilty to one count of sexual activity with a child and grooming

Premier League footballer is appearing at Bradford Crown Court

Adam Johnson has pleaded guilty to one count of sexual activity with a child and one count of grooming.

The Sunderland footballer, 28, denies two other charges of sexual activity with a girl aged under 16.

Johnson arrived at Bradford Crown Court on Wednesday with his girlfriend Stacey Flounders, 26.

He was arrested on 2 March 2015 and temporarily suspended by Sunderland. However, his suspension was lifted when his bail period was extended.

Johnson admitted the grooming charge, which relates to a period between 30 December 2014 and 26 February 2015 and a further charge of sexual activity on 30 January 2015.

Johnson began his career at Middlesbrough before moving to Manchester City. He then moved to Sunderland for £10 million in 2012 and has played for England.

He had previously denied three counts of sexual activity with a child and one count of grooming.

The judge at Bradford Crown Court has asked for a jury panel to be sworn in. In his directions, Judge Jonathan Rose told the jurors that Johnson had already pleaded guilty to two charges. He added that they may read about the case in the press and instructed them to try the defendant on only the evidence presented before them in court.

The trial is due to be opened formally on Friday.

Additional reporting by Press Association