The winger has featured just five times since being arrested and then charged on suspicion of sexual activity with a child, but played a key role in beating Everton on Saturday.
Dick Advocaat believes Sunderland's struggles this season can be partly put down to the absence of Adam Johnson.
The winger has made just five appearances since being arrested on suspicion of sexual activity with a 15-year-old girl in March, with charges brought against the player in April and a court date set for May 20.
Johnson was brought on for the final 20 minutes against Everton and played a part in the second goal in the 2-0 win, prompting Advocaat to lament not having Johnson more readily available since replacing Gus Poyet.