EVERTON have pledged £200,000 to help the family of a five-year-old Sunderland fan pay for cancer treatment in the United States.

Fundraisers are attempting to collect £700,000 to help Bradley Lowery, who was Sunderland's mascot in their 3-0 defeat against the Toffees at the Stadium of Light on Monday evening.

And the Merseyside club have made a massive donation to boost the fund after learning of Bradley's fight.

The club said via their Twitter account: "Everton Football Club has pledged a donation of £200,000 to support @Bradleysfight in his brave battle.

"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."

Five-year-old Bradley Lowery, of Blackhall Colliery, County Durham, was diagnosed with neuroblastoma in 2013, undergoing gruelling chemotherapy and numerous operations.

The initial treatment proved to be a success and the brave youngster was declared to be in remission in 2015.

Sadly, the cancer has returned and Bradley’s family are now trying to raise £700,000 to fund potentially life-saving treatment in the USA. A special text donation number has been set up, with the aim of helping the Lowery family to reach their target as quickly as possible.

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.

To make a donation, text BRAD02 £1 to 70070 or visit www.chasethewind.co.uk or see www.facebook.com/BradleyLowerysFightAgainstNeuroblastoma for more information.