WATCH: Sunderland pay Bradley Lowery tribute ahead of Championship kick-off
Sunday 6 August 2017 20:18, UK
There were emotional scenes before kick-off at the Stadium of Light on Friday as Sunderland paid tribute to Bradley Lowery.
The six-year-old, who captured the hearts of football fans, died last month following a brave battle with neuroblastoma and prior to the clash with Derby, the ground observed a minute's applause to celebrate Bradley's life.
The young Sunderland fan battled the rare form of cancer since he was 18 months old.
His bravery in battling the disease with a huge smile on his face and his passion for football touched millions around the world.
Through his illness and his love of Sunderland, he struck up a friendship with former Sunderland and England striker Jermain Defoe, after appearing as a mascot in the Premier League match against Chelsea in December 2016,
He soon began to refer to Defoe as his "best mate" and the England star often visited him in hospital to comfort him through his treatment.
Watch Sunderland's tribute to Bradley Lowery by clicking the play button above.
