Black Cats boss involved in heated exchange with fans as frustration builds after Oxford secure draw

SUNDERLAND boss Lee Johnson found himself at the heart of controversy as the Black Cats’ stuttering form continued.

The north east side surrendered a 1-0 lead to draw 1-1 at home to Oxford United on Saturday.

And the former Bristol City manager responded rather angrily to the criticism he received from the Stadium of Light crowd shortly after the final whistle.

In a video that emerged online after the match, Johnson gestures towards the crowd before allegedly arguing with supporters.

It comes with the one-time Oldham boss under pressure following indifferent results over the past couple of months.

The 2014 League Cup finalists have lost five of their last nine matches in all competitions, including a 5-1 humiliation by Rotherham, while winning twice.

And the Sunderland supporters have made their feelings known online.

@Parkersafc posted: ‘Whether Lee Johnson swore or stuck his fingers up at fans or not, that result won’t see him closer to the exit door whether we like it or not.

‘Failure to beat Morecambe however should see a taxi waiting outside the Stadium of Light for him at full-time.’

@BuntingFootball wrote:

‘If Lee Johnson has given the fingers to a Sunderland fan after getting abuse shouted at him today I say fair play. He may be a football manager and you can question professionalism but if somebody is abusing you and maybe taking it to a personal level they deserve something

back.’ @sparkymarc23 said: ‘I was watching the game at home with my 2x little ones and saw him make some gesture and shouting back towards somebody.

‘Can understand him retaliating, but at the same time, they’ve got to take the criticism on the chin.’

Sunderland versus Oxford was one of just two League One games played on Saturday. Accrington won 5-1 at home to Fleetwood in the other.