'I teared up a little': Sunderland fans react to Liverpool captain's Kevin Ball message

Ball was recognised for his outstanding contribution to North East football and was presented with The John Fotheringham Award at a special dinner at Ramside Hall Hotel on Sunday night.

And a video has emerged online of Henderson’s message of heartfelt thanks to his former Black Cats youth team coach, prompting Sunderland supporters to pay tribute to the former Sunderland captain on social media.

Here’s how YOU reacted on Facebook and Twitter:

Ball’s son and Sunderland fan Luke (@LukeyKB87) said: “I teared up a little. I'm not going to hide it. Mainly through the knowledge of each player he has invested in. Some have gone on to great things in football, others in their life outside of that world. We need coaches, good ones, but we also need life educators in sport.”

England Women’s captain Steph Houghton (@stephhoughton2) in response to Lukesaid: “What a legend he is Luke!”

Gemma Dickinson (@hildainstant) added: “Always gives his time to those who approach him! Introduced my sons to him last year, and within 30 seconds of chatting he was telling them how much he loved to tackle A true great of our club and of the game.”

On Facebook, Anthony Herron said: “Superb servant for the club a great captain and even better person, would love to see him get a good crack of the whip at been the manager one day instead of just a caretaker role. Well done Kevin Ball.”

Ian Swansbury added: Kevin Ball - a proper lad/player/man /captain/manager and he does loads in the local community as well.”

Tommy Barron said: “The best £300,000 we ever spent well done Kevin.”

Mark Gascoigne explained: “Top bloke, he seen it all at Sunderland great player and captain remember that tackle against Norwich in the semi at Hillsborough… oh, Bally Bally!”

Jacky Taylor said: “Great ambassador to Sunderland.”

Andrea Wilson said: “I hope he gets inducted into the Hall of Fame.”