Adam Johnson launches appeal against jail sentence

Disgraced footballer Adam Johnson has begun an appeal against his six-year sentence for grooming and engaging in sexual activity with a besotted teenage fan, court officials have said.

The sacked Sunderland and ex-England winger was jailed last month after he was convicted of sexual activity with a girl following a trial at Bradford Crown Court.

Johnson had already admitted grooming the girl and a separate, less serious charge of sexual activity with her.

An official at Bradford Crown Court confirmed Johnson's legal team has lodged an appeal against sentence.

Late last month it was confirmed he had started an appeal against his conviction for sexually touching the fan.

The 28-year-old former Middlesbrough and Manchester City attacker has already begun an appeal against his conviction for the one offence for which he was found guilty.

On the Adam Johnson's Appeal Fight page on Facebook, run by his sister Faye, a post said: "Adam's appeal against his sentence has now been lodged!"

"Thanks everyone for your support it means a lot! X"

The appeal page has been "liked" by more than 8,000 people.

Passing sentence last month, Judge Jonathan Rose said Johnson had caused his victim "severe psychological harm".