A North East footballer has become a hero after performing CPR to save the life of a drowning dog on a beach.

Sunderland AFC captain Luke O'Nien reportedly rescued a Labrador by performing CPR on the canine at a Sunderland beach last night (August 24).

The elderly dog had become submerged while out swimming and had been pulled out by its owner.

Witnesses at the scene reported seeing the Sunderland superstar pump the dog's chest until it "coughed up loads of seawater."

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In a post online, one person who witnessed the scene said: "Down beach tonight with dog and watched a lad save the life of an elderly Labrador that had what I thought drowned, after going under whilst swimming and been pulled out by women owner.

"Lad ran over to help and kept pumping dog's chest until it coughed up loads of seawater, eventually it came round and got to its feet.

"The young lad was Luke O'Nien, take a bow son, brilliant job.

"What a genuinely lovely fella, much respect, don't think the few people who were there realised who you were."

Residents and supporters have since taken to social media to praise the Black Cats hero for his lifesaving efforts.

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One said: "What a guy, his wife and family must be so proud of him. He's a lovely fella"

One delighted fan said: "Keep him at the club for life. Coaching role after his playing days."

Another said: "The only shirt I own with a player’s name on it. The lad has a heart of gold!"