Ex-Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe shares final picture with Bradley Lowery in special tribute

The inspirational young football fan, whose cheeky smile captured the hearts of the nation, died on July 7, 2017.

To continue the six-year-old’s legacy, Bradley’s family, of Blackhall, created a foundation in his name which continues to support families today.

Jermain Defoe OBE took to social media yesterday (July 7) to post the final picture taken of him with best friend Bradley in a touching tribute.

Defoe, 37, who now plays for Scottish team Rangers, wrote: “This was last pic we had together, can’t believe it’s been three years! Miss u little man.”

The pair met when Bradley acted as mascot at the Stadium of Light for his beloved Black Cats and their special friendship formed.

The club and its players were a big support to Bradley and his family as he was battled neuroblastoma, a rare and debilitating form of cancer.

Yesterday Bradley’s mum and charity founder Gemma Lowery took to social media and paid tribute to her special little boy.

She said: “I miss him more than any words could ever describe, I cry myself to sleep at night wishing so hard that when I fall asleep I dream about him.

“However I do wake up the next day, and I work hard to continue his legacy he created in the hope I’m doing him proud.”

For more information about the Bradley Lowery Foundation and its work, click here.

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