3. As much as the grim inevitability of the second half was a sapping body blow, we looked good in that first half. We scored goals and I think we have enough to win some games and be ok.
No. The dispute is contractual so what matters is the terms between the two parties. They could (and should) have dismissed Johnson but ultimately if the contracting party wishes to keep a contract going in spite of breach they can do.
The legality of Sunderland's actions will likely hinge on the terms of the players contract. I would be staggered if Sunderland didn't at least take advice and get told they had an arguable case before taking the course they have.
I should think that they will have done this in the hope that they can negotiate less liability than what they would have if his contract remained in full.