Football mourns as Bradley loses battle
TRIBUTES have been paid to Sunderland fan Bradley Lowery, who has died aged six following a battle with cancer. Bradley’s fight against neuroblastoma — the rare form of cancer with which he was diagnosed in 2013 — touched the hearts of millions the world over and united footballing rivals. He developed a special friendship with his favourite player, Jermain Defoe, and the England striker broke down in tears on Thursday when asked about their relationship during his unveiling as a Bournemouth player. He said: ‘There is not a day that goes past where I do not wake up in the morning and check my phone or think about little Bradley because his love is genuine and I can see it in his eyes. It is special.’ Confirming the news of his death yesterday afternoon, his mum Gemma wrote: ‘My brave boy went with the angels today. He was our little superhero and put the biggest fight up but he was needed elsewhere. There are no words to describe how heartbroken we are.’ Sunderland paid their own tribute, saying: ‘Bradley captured the hearts and minds of everyone at our club with his indomitable spirit, tremendous courage and beautiful smile, which could light up even the darkest of rooms. ‘Despite battling neuroblastoma for much of his all too short life, he demonstrated a bravery and fortitude beyond his years that humbled us all. He was truly an inspiration.’ The Bradley’s Fight charity raised more than £1million for his treatment, and Sunderland’s tribute added: ‘Football can be a powerful force for good and our sport came together to embrace Bradley’s fight in a unique way.’ Bradley was mascot at the Stadium of Light on several occasions and also led out England alongside Defoe at Wembley in March. He appeared at the BBC Sports Personality of the Year and was named as the 41st runner in the Grand National, as well as winning Match of the Day Goal of the Month.