JERMAIN Defoe has slammed an “appalling” yob who used a picture of his brave pal Bradley Lowery to taunt rival football fans.
The ex-Sunderland star struck up a close friendship with Bradley, six, before his death from cancer in 2017.
Defoe became close friends with Bradley
Houghton sparked fury over the vile act
He said he was “appalled and saddened” after Dale Houghton, 31, was snapped using a picture of the youngster to mock Sunderland fans during Friday’s game against Sheffield Wednesday.
Defoe told Mail Online: “My thoughts at this time go out to Gemma and Carl [Bradley’s parents], who shouldn’t have to deal with incidents like this, but rather be praised for the amazing work they are doing with the Bradley Lowery Foundation in their son’s memory.
“I urge the public to stand behind the family and continue support the Foundation and its projects.
“Bradley was one of the most inspirational children this world has ever seen, and he will never stop inspiring us.
“We love and miss you Brad. Love, your best friend forever.”
Jermain’s comments come after Houghton today admitted causing harassment, alarm and distress.
The disgraced fan now faces a maximum of six months in prison for the Public Order offence when he sentenced on November 17.
He will be made to attend a drug intervention programme after testing positive for cocaine, the court heard.
Football fans were left horrified after the pictures from the game were circulated on X, formerly Twitter, on Friday.
Prosecutor Jade Short said Houghton’s antics caused a “huge public revulsion”.
She also told the court the shamed football fan found it “enjoyable banter” as he was smiling throughout.
Houghton was slammed by Bradley’s mum Gemma today for the “unforgivable” act, which drew criticism from all football supporters.
In a victim impact statement, she said: “This image made me feel so many emotions. I find it hard to put into words.
“It is not just disrespectful to Bradley but also to other people who are going through the emotional trauma of dealing with cancer.
“This image portrays negatively. I feel upset that these two men used this image to get a reaction from Sunderland fans. It was unforgivable.
“I have nothing but loving memories of Bradley.”
Houghton has lost his job as a window fitter following the sick act and is facing a ban from attending matches.
A 27-year-old man who was also arrested has been released on bail while investigations continue.
Brave Bradley’s battle with against rare childhood cancer neuroblastoma captured the nation’s hearts.
Tragically, Bradley died in July 2017 in his devastated parents’ arms, with Defoe paying an emotional tribute to his “best pal”.
Sunderland superfan Bradley died in 2017 aged six
Jermain with Bradley before an England match at Wembley in 2017Reuters
Houghton will be sentenced next month Creator – [#item_custom_dc:creator]
