Back of the net, Jermain

Former Sunderland star Jermain Defoe will always be remembered with fondness on Wearside – partly for his goal-scoring exploits but mainly for his special friendship with Bradley Lowery.

The bond between the England footballer and the cancer-stricken Blackhall youngster touched millions of hearts right across the world.

So we’re pleased to report that Jermain Defoe is to be honoured for his positivity and commitment to Bradley, who died last year after a fight against the rare condition of neuroblastoma.

He will be honoured at the Football Writers’ Association’s annual awards night next month.

The now-Bournemouth player will be given the North East Personality of the Year trophy, a special award handed out in association with the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, honouring someone who uses their position in the game to benefit the wider community.

The unlikely but moving friendship also raised further awareness of Bradley’s illness, which affects less than 100 children in Britain each year.

Sir Bobby’s widow Lady Elsie summed it up when she said: “The special connection between Bradley and Jermain was apparent for everyone to see.

“For his parents, I hope the support and love for Bradley from the football community has provided some small comfort after their dreadful loss.”

And Colin Young, secretary of the North East Football Writers’ Association, added: “The very special friendship between Bradley Lowery and Jermain Defoe touched the whole country.”

For providing us with so many heart-warming memories, Jermain Defoe deserves every award that comes his way.