Disgraced footballer Adam Johnson could be released from prison within the next 12 months, according to his sister.
The former England, Middlesbrough, Manchester City and Sunderland winger was locked up for six years in 2016 after being convicted for sexually abusing a teenager he groomed online.
However, Johnson's younger sister, Faye, has said in a social media post that her brother could be freed within a year.
The announcement was made in a Twitter message in which Miss Johnson said her sibling would be out of prison in time to celebrate her son's birthday next year.
This latest development comes despite a prison service spokesperson previously dismissing Miss Johnson's claims.
Johnson, 30, made 12 appearances for England during his time as a professional footballer in the Premier League with clubs such as Manchester City and Sunderland.
However, Sunderland cancelled his contract days after charges had been put against the winger, who is reported to want to revive his footballing career with a move to China when he leaves prison.
Johnson confessed to grooming the 15-year-old girl and one charge of sexual activity with a child which related to kissing her.
He was also found guilty by a jury at Bradford Crown Court of an additional charge of sexual activity with a child.
Johnson's sister has always stood by her brother and appears to maintain he will soon be released from prison.
On a recent social media post of an image of Miss Johnson with her boyfriend, someone wrote: "Won't be long before Adam is in the picture with you." Miss Johnson replied: "I can't wait."
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