A young Swans fan is appealing for public support of Adam Goodes, as the Sydney star plans a return to the field this weekend.

A Facebook page created by Geelong resident Sophie Wrigley last week has quickly gathered momentum.

The ‘Stand up for Goodsey’ page has attracted 2400 likes since its creation, with an aim to stop the recurring booing aimed at the footballer since early this year.

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“My name is Sophie and I had the privilege of meeting Adam Goodes,” the 10-year-old posted on the page.

“He happily gave up his own time for me to have a one on one training session with him… if you could only meet Adam you would know that he is a kind, genuine person.

“Goodsey is my hero and a great AFL legend and does not deserve to be be booed. Please share and stand up for Goodsey with me.”

Sophie, who has hemiplegia – a form of cerebral palsy – met Goodes at a one-on-one training session organised by the Starlight Children’s Foundation last year, the Geelong Advertiser has reported.

“He told me to take my time when I was going for a goal and to hold the footy with both my hands, near the laces,” she said.

She is the only girl in her team in the under-12s at Grovedale and attributed her first goal, kicked a few weeks ago, to the Swans star’s coaching.

She told the newspaper she started the page as she felt “very sad” for Goodes and hoped Geelong fans would support him in the game against Sydney at Simonds Stadium this weekend.

Goodes was granted indefinite leave from football last week, missing the game against the Adelaide Crows, following constant vilification from sections of opposing teams fans.

But he returned to training on Tuesday, saying he felt humbled by an outpouring of support.