Former Sunderland footballer Adam Johnson has officially lodged an appeal against his conviction and six-year prison sentence for grooming and sexual activity with a 15-year-old girl.

The 28-year-old was jailed last month after being found guilty of child sexual assault.

Prior to the trial at Bradford Crown Court, the sportsman admitted to grooming and kissing the girl, whom he met in his parked car during an incident last January.

According to The Guardian, court officials in Bradford have confirmed that an appeal has been launched against the six-year sentence.

Johnson's sister Faye also reportedly took to social media to write: "Adam's appeal against his sentence has now been lodged! Thanks everyone for your support it means a lot! X"

Sunderland sacked Johnson after he admitted to one charge of sexual activity with a child under the age of 16.