Bradley Lowery congratulates his hero on making it into the England squad

Bradley Lowery will be mascot at the game against Lithuania Credit: PA / ITV Tyne Tees

Following the news that Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe has made it into the England squad, one special little boy from County Durham had a message for him.

Bradley Lowery has captured the hearts of the nation in his battle against neuroblastoma, a rare form of cancer.

Bradley couldn't wait to congratulate Defoe, his favourite Black Cats player.

This post was published on the twitter page dedicated to updating Bradley's thousands of well-wishers:

"Bradley was over the moon to hear his best mate had been called up for the England squad. He loves you @IAmJermainDefoe #specialbond"

Jermain Defoe took to twitter to thank his young fan, tweeting:

"See you there! #LittleLegend"

The five-year-old from Blackhall is set to be mascot at the World Cup qualifier on March 26.

The schoolboy is no stranger to cheering crowds though, he led Sunderland out the tunnel, when they took on Chelsea last year.