Jermain Defoe has left Bournemouth's pre-season training camp in Spain to travel back to England to attend the funeral of Bradley Lowery on Friday.
During his time at Sunderland, the England striker struck up a close friendship with Bradley, who died on July 7 from a rare form of cancer aged six.
The funeral will take place at St Joseph's Church in Blackhall Colliery, County Durham, with the memorial service also set to be played on loud speakers outside.
The family will then be having a private ceremony at a crematorium.