'There has to be a price to pay' - What Chris Wilder said about disgusting racist message sent to Sheffield United striker David McGoldrick

McGoldrick shared a screenshot of a message he received from a now-deleted account, containing a number of racist obscenities.

The abuse was condemned by both United and the Republic of Ireland FA, while South Yorkshire Police said that they are working with United on the matter.

And Wilder, speaking ahead of Thursday's clash at Leicester City, admitted the abuse is "very concerning".

"It's incredible that these things are still happening," Wilder said.

"I'm not the biggest fan of social media, I understand the importance of it but more has to be done by the people that power these outlets, to work in conjunction with Police and authorities and punish heavily these people that feel they have the right to go online and abuse people.

"We've all been victims to it, in the jobs we work in, but that doesn't mean it's right and the sooner we get to the bottom of it, whether it's racism or whatever, the better. People thinking that they have the right to abuse people is terrible."

Wilder hasn't yet spoken to McGoldrick about the abuse, but added: "Knowing what the player and person is about, he'll be disappointed and I imagine he'll be saying same things we're all saying.

"He has my, the players' and the club's full support. He's an intelligent guy, a fabulous footballer and most importantly a great human being. He'll understand it but it still doesn't make it right and he has our full support.

"The severest of punishments need to be handed out to people.

"I'm a big believer in education but there has to be a price to pay for people who think they can do this.

"What I would like to happen is maybe a bit extreme, and so I'll keep that to myself, but the club put out a statement and hopefully the authorities can take it forward from hereon in - and deal with it in the best way."

An important message: Thank you for reading this story. The dramatic events of 2020 are having a major impact on our advertisers and thus our revenues. The Star is more reliant than ever on you taking out a digital subscription to support our journalism. You can subscribe here for unlimited access to Sheffield news and information online. Every subscription helps us continue providing trusted, local journalism and campaign on your behalf for our city. Thank you, and stay safe. Danny.