Adam Johnson's sister backs legal appeal with Facebook post

Faye Johnson has posted a photo of her brother and his baby daughter on Facebook calling for people to support him in his appeal - despite him admitting grooming and sexual activity with a 15-year-old girl.

The 28-year-old, who was sacked by Sunderland AFC after his guilty pleas on the first day of his trial, was later found not guilty of a further charge of sexual activity with a child, but guilty of another charge of the same offence last Wednesday at Bradford Crown Court.

Faye sat through almost all of the trial, which was told in its closing hours that Johnson would be launching an appeal.

The former winger, who lives in Castle Eden, is yet to be sentenced, but has been told to expect between four and 10 years in imprison.

Under the black and white photo, it says: “Change your profile pic to support Adam Johnson’s appeal.

“Facebook removed our group but we will not stop publicising our support.

“#TeamAJ”

A page titled the Adam Johnson Appeal Fight was removed from Facebook on Monday after people reported it.

Before it was taken down more than 1,000 people had “liked” it.

Some of those commenting made unpleasant remarks about Johnson’s 15-year-old victim, which led others to complain to Facebook.

Among those angry about the page that was removed were the anonymous paedophile hunters Dark Justice.

One of the Tyneside-based pair said: “We think it’s crazy such a page even got made and some of the stuff said on there was sick.

“There was no need at all. We’re glad it’s gone.”