Will Smallbone opens up after receiving social media abuse

The 24 year old deleted his X account in the aftermath of Southampton's FA Cup exit at Liverpool back in February.

Smallbone was at fault for the Reds’ second goal and was subjected to personal online abuse including wishes of illness and comparisons to evil historical figures post-match.

Manager Russell Martin launched a passionate defence of Smallbone, describing social media as a "cesspit of negativity."

READ MORE: Southampton's Martin 'feels sick' at online abuse of player

Speaking to Southampton's media team during 'Day in the life: Will Smallbone' the academy graduate said: "Everyone has got an opinion on Twitter.

"Anyone can create an account and pretend to be a Saints fan and say whatever makes them feel better.

"For me, it was better to just come off it and not listen to it. That allows me to focus on football.

Will Smallbone has made 37 Championship appearances this season (Image: Stuart Martin)

"It's a weird one because it went from being such a bad week to being such a good week in a short space of time.

"That is football. One week you could be the hero and next week the villain. I had good support around me.

"My girlfriend was brilliant. My friends were very supportive. My teammates and the manager were great as well.

"When we got to Birmingham, the support I had from the fans was something that I will never forget.

Will Smallbone led the celebrations after Southampton's last-minute winner against Birmingham (Image: Southampton FC)

"I saw a few different bits from fans on social media which was very supportive. That is a moment I will always have."

Smallbone also touched on how difficult it can be for family members of footballers to read the stuff said about players online.

"It's not nice for me to read but it's almost harder for the people around me who want to fight for me but they can't.

"There is nothing they can say. They are all very supportive and good for me. I can't thank any of them enough really."