Adam Johnson reportedly sent text messages branding his trial for child sex offences "a joke" days before he was convicted last month.
The former Sunderland winger was sentenced to six years in prison after he was found guilty of digitally penetrating a 15-year-old schoolgirl.
According to The Sunday People, Johnson was in regular contact with a female lover, who has since released details of their exchanges under the condition of anonymity, in the weeks leading up to his sentencing.
In one message he is said to have written: "Yeh it's all a joke just for one stupid kiss and that's it."
In another he wrote: "I will be fine, it's just getting it done and getting out and passing time writing letters."
On his post-prison career, Johnson said: "Yeh let's wait and see, not holding my breath tho... Hopefully play again but maybe in another country."
Johnson has already confirmed that he will appeal his conviction.
Neil Wilkes
