'Adam Johnson failed as a role model' - Durham Police

Former Sunderland player Adam Johnson had a responsibility to be a role model in such a football-obsessed region, and failed, said Det Insp Aelfwynn Sampson of Durham Police.

The 28-year-old knew early on how old the victim was and continued to be in contact with her and arrange to meet her, she said.

The player was found guilty of one count of sexual activity with a girl aged 15 after a trial at Bradford Crown Court. He was found not guilty on another count of sexual activity.

He had admitted to one count of sexual activity and one of grooming before the trial started.