Billy Sharp has released a statement on social media after being assaulted by a Nottingham Forest fan following Sheffield United's crushing play-off defeat.
Sharp, who played for Forest in the 2013/14 season, was attacked by a man who charged at him during a pitch invasion following Forest's 3-2 penalty shootout victory on Tuesday.
A man has since been arrested on suspicion of assault after a shocking video emerged online.
Sharp, who was 'shook up, bleeding and angry' after the assault, has penned a message on Twitter - insisting he would not let the incident 'ruin the respect' he has for the Forest fans.
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He also vowed that Sheff United will be back next season and thanked the messages of support in wake of the assault.
"One mindless idiot ruined what was an unbelievable night of football," the 36-year-old wrote. "Congratulations to Nottingham Forest on their victory and good luck in the final.
"As an ex-Forest player I will not let one scumbag ruin my respect for the Forest fans.
"Incredibly proud to be captain of this group of Sheffield United players. They gave their all and can hold their heads up high. We will be back and go again. Thanks for all your messages and support after the incident."
Sheff United boss Paul Heckingbottom shared his thoughts on the incident as he condemned the attack on the Blades captain.
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"I watch every Monday Night Football, every Super Sunday, my time up in Scotland, there has been so many people talking about seeing things thrown on the pitch, fans invading the pitch, seeing things that put players' health and safety in danger," he told Sky Sports
"We've seen it. We know what has happened. It's bang out of order. We're the ones that suffer.
"It's upsetting for a lot of reasons."
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Forest released a statement about the incident, apologising to Sharp and their opponents on the night.
They said: "The club will work with the authorities to locate the individual in order they are held to account for their actions, which will include a life ban from Nottingham Forest.
"The club would also like to apologise to Billy personally and to Sheffield United."
Topics: Football
Nasir Jabbar