Jermain Defoe ‘appalled’ by football fan who mocked death of young mascot

Jermain Defoe has said he was “appalled” by the actions of a football supporter who mocked the death of mascot Bradley Lowery.

Dale Houghton 31, pleaded guilty to a public order offence at Sheffield Magistrates’ Court on Monday after pictures circulated on X, formerly known as Twitter, showed him laughing while holding up a picture of Bradley to the camera at a match between Sheffield Wednesday and Sunderland.

Sunderland fan Bradley captured the nation’s heart during his battle with neuroblastoma, but succumbed to the illness aged six in 2017.

He was a mascot for his club and, in the months before his death, led England out at Wembley alongside former Black Cats striker Defoe.

Speaking to MailOnline on Monday, Defoe said Bradley was “one of the most inspirational children this world has ever seen”.

“I’m appalled and saddened by the actions of the individual in question,” he said.

“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 to 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.”

Houghton, from Rotherham, was bailed and will be sentenced on November 17.

District Judge James Gould told him “your actions are utterly deplorable” and that all sentencing options were open, including a prison term.

Judge Gould said he had seen the photograph circulated after Friday night’s match at Hillsborough.

He told Houghton: “You