Everton have pledged £200,000 towards the medical costs of the family of a five-year-old Sunderland fan who is suffering from Neuroblastoma, a rare form of cancer affecting children and babies.

Fundraisers are attempting to collect £700,000 to help Bradley Lowery, who was Sunderland’s mascot in their 3-0 defeat against Everton at the Stadium of Light on Monday evening. The five-year-old from Blackhall in County Durham is fighting cancer, and his family are hoping he can receive lifesaving treatment only available in the United States.

And the Liverpool club have made a huge donation to boost the fund after learning of Bradley’s condition.

The club said via their Twitter account: “We wish Bradley every success and he has the love and support of every Evertonian.

“The club will also be inviting Bradley and his family to the return game at Goodison Park and the players’ signed shirts from tonight’s game will be auctioned off to support the fund.”

Spectators at the game sang Bradley’s name as the clock reached the five-minute mark, while some carried a banner bearing the message, “We’re with you, Bradley” around the stadium.

Everton have also invited the Lowerys to the return fixture and will auction off signed shirts from the game.