Adam Johnson sends letter thanking fans for support from prison

The photograph of the note reads: "Tell the fans thanks for the support from me if your (sic) allowed and the letters.

"Love Adam xxx."

The image has been posted on the Adam Johnson's Appeal Fight Facebook page, which has been set up by the disgraced former Sunderland winger's sister Faye.

The status update goes on to say: "A note from Adam in my letter this morning to thank those that have and continue to support him!"

The ex-England player has lodged an appeal against his conviction for sexually touching an underage fan.

He was jailed for six years last month following a trial at Bradford Crown Court, which saw him plead guilty to grooming and a charge of sexual activity with the girl after he kissed her in his car on the first day of the three-week hearing.

Johnson, who was sacked by Sunderland following his admissions, was acquitted of a third charge of sexual activity, in which it was alleged that the girl performed a sex act on him.

Judge Jonathan Rose sentenced Johnson, of Castle Eden, County Durham, to five years for the sexual touching charge, one year for grooming, to run consecutively, and four months for kissing, to run concurrently.

The Facebook page has more than 8,000 likes.