Adam Johnson turned down approaches from Tottenham and Liverpool

Adam Johnson turned down approaches from Tottenham and Liverpool to join Sunderland as he seeks to boost his England chances.

Adam Johnson is hoping to become an England regular

Johnson, 25, had spoken of his frustration that his lack of opportunities at Manchester City had cost him his place in the England squad for Euro 2012, and he is hopeful that the opportunity to play regularly at the Stadium of Light will turn things around.

"Roy Hodgson said he wants his players to be playing regular first-team football," he said. "That's something I wasn't doing at Manchester City, but I hope it will be different for me here at Sunderland.

Tottenham and Liverpool have both approached Manchester City about signing winger Adam Johnson.

Tottenham and Liverpool have both approached Manchester City about signing winger Adam Johnson.

City boss Roberto Mancini confirmed last weekend that Johnson, 25, is surplus to requirements at Eastlands and can move on in search of regular first-team football.

Sunderland have already lodged a £10 million bid for the England international, but he is thought to favour a move to one of the Premier League's bigger sides rather than a return to his native North East.

Spurs and Liverpool fit that profile and a Manchester City source confirmed to ESPN that both "have made enquires for Adam Johnson".