Calls for Sunderland supporters to show support for tragic Wycombe fan who died aged 13

The two teams will meet at the Stadium of Light at 3pm on Saturday, January 11.

Oliver was described as being “full of life and fun, with his whole future ahead of him”.

He died after spending four days in intensive care battling the effects of sepsis after contracting a heavy cold.

Oliver attended matches with his dad Tom, a Wycombe season ticket holder. He was also a keen footballer himself, playing for his local team Downley Dynamos and winning many trophies.

Now an SAFC fans’ group is urging others to give a minute’s applause at the match, to show solidarity in the way that other clubs did when Bradley Lowery passed away in July 2017.

Bradley captured the imagination of the country before losing his life to neuroblastoma at the age of only six.

Fans are asked to give a standing ovation in the 13th minute of the game.

The Sunderland AFC Supporters’ Facebook page on January 10 said: “How about a standing ovation tomorrow on the 13th minute to show our support to 13 year-old Wycombe Wanderers FC fan and season ticket holder, Oliver Darlington, who sadly lost his life on the 3rd of January due to sepsis?

“Many clubs showed their support for our Bradley, hopefully we can show ours for Oliver in return.

“We welcome the visitors to the Stadium of Light tomorrow, with Oliver firmly in our thoughts. RIP young man.”

One Facebook poster said: “I, being a SAFC supporter will show my respect for this young lad. RIP and condolences to Oliver’s family.”

Another said: “Hope we show our support. God bless and rest in peace young man.”

Friends of Oliver's family have started a JustGiving page to help raise funds for the UK Sepsis Trust and awareness of the risks of sepsis. They have set a target of £10,000 and have already raised over £6,000.

To contribute, please visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/oliverdarlington