Jordan Henderson joins outpouring of tributes to Sunderland AFC's media chief Louise Wanless

She spent 16 years heading up the club’s media and communications department and was part of its staff when she passed away after a long-term illness this week.

Tributes have flooded in from people across the footballing world and beyond, as her role saw her work alongside organisations and communities across the region.

Midfielder Jordan Henderson who played for the Black Cats from 2008 to 2011 and is part of England’s Euro 2020 squad, retweeted the club’s statement with the message: “Very sad to hear this news about Louise.

"More than anything she was a kind, caring and amazing person.

"She’ll be sorely missed. My thoughts are with her family, friends and colleagues.”

Max Power, who has just made the move from Sunderland to Wigan Athletic, said: "Terrible news.

"What a lovely woman who will be sorely missed.

“Rest in peace Louise.”

Father Marc Lyden-Smith, the club’s chaplain, shared his memories by saying: “Louise was a wonderfully kind and caring lady who worked so hard for @SunderlandAFC

“I will be praying for her and her lovely family and friends.

"May she rest in peace x.”

Everton was among the clubs to share their condolences and said: “Incredibly sad news. Our thoughts are with Louise’s family, friends and colleagues at

@SunderlandAFC.

"Rest in peace, Lou.”

Among the region’s clubs to add their voice to tributes is Newcastle United, who said: “Extremely sad news.

"Our deepest sympathies go out to Louise's family, friends and everybody at @SunderlandAFC at this difficult time.

“Rest in peace, Louise.”

Middlesbrough FC, where she had worked before making the move to Wearside in 2003, had added its tributes soon after her death was confirmed yesterday, Wednesday, June 16.

It its statement, which saw former captain Kevin Ball lead its tributes, Sunderland said: “A hugely popular and well-respected figure within the game, she was held in immense regard by all at SAFC and served the club with unwavering dedication, an unrivalled work ethic and a fierce determination.”

It highlighted how she was championed as a unsung hero of the game in 2019, when she was presented with the John Fotheringham Award at the North East Football Writers’ Awards.