England's Adam Johnson helps Sunderland beat Fulham at Craven Cottage

England winger Adam Johnson inspired Sunderland to an impressive 3-1 win at Fulham in Sunday’s only Premier League clash.

The 25-year-old joined the Black Cats from Manchester City in the summer but has been struggling to capture his best form so far.

Sunderland have been struggling too, and had scored only seven goals this season before their trip to Craven Cottage.

But Johnson was one of the stand-out performers for the visitors as they took advantage of Brede Hangeland’s red card and secured their second victory of the season.

First Johnson produced a sublime, defence-splitting through-ball for Steven Fletcher to prod beyond Simon Mignolet in the 50th minute.

Fulham equalised 12 minutes later but Johnson was at it again within 120 seconds, swinging in a great corner for Carlos Cuellar to nod home.

Stephane Sessegnon completed the scoring with a goal of the season contender 20 minutes from time to wrap up the win.

Manager Martin O’Neill was delighted with Johnson’s overall contribution and explained why he’s gradually improving at Sunderland.

He said: “Adam was playing in a team at Manchester City and getting 20 or 25 minutes at the end of matches, either coming on when they need to get something or when they’re in front. They are a terrific side.

“Here he’s having to start matches and, with respect to us, we’re not even remotely as good as Manchester City. He’s having to strive, he’s having to do more for us then he would ever have to have done there.

“But he’s getting there.”