Dominic Calvert-Lewin's defiant message as former Sheffield United man remembers being racially abused at age of SIX

"At that age the person that's being racist towards you probably doesn't quite understand what it really means, or what they are actually saying," Calvert-Lewin added.

The perpetrator ended up being one of the Everton and England striker's best friends throughout his time at school in Sheffield. But the experience stayed with him, all the way through his journey through United's junior ranks and into the Premier League and England squad, and was recalled by Calvert-Lewin as part of the top flight's No Room For Racism initiative.

Premier League players will wear that message on their shirts this season, replacing the 'Black Lives Matter' slogan that featured in the latter part of the previous campaign, and 'No Room for Racism' message will again be displayed prominently at Anfield this weekend when United travel to face the reigning Premier League champions.

Blades forward David McGoldrick reported a racist message he was sent on Instagram last season, while fellow top-flight players like Wilfried Zaha and Calvert-Lewin have also been targeted.

"On social media it's a coward's way of them trying to offend you without being confronted," Calvert-Lewin added.

"Some players have reported it now and it's nice to know that if you do report it, something's going to happen. I feel like in the past it's been too easy to kind of think, I have to deal with it, it's part and parcel, which it's not."

After his early experience of racism, Calvert-Lewin remembers his anger and telling his mum and dad.

"They've always said to me just be comfortable in your own skin and always love yourself, no matter what you look like," the striker added.

"Racism is the lowest of the low. It's important to love yourself and don't give the person the satisfaction of affecting your happiness. My advice would be to stand strong and be comfortable in yourself and speak.

"I think it's important to be vocal and don't be afraid. Never be afraid."

Fans can report any form of discrimination via Kick It Out's reporting app or website reporting form.

Thank you for reading this article, one of dozens we publish every single day to provide you with the best, most up-to-date and most informative coverage of YOUR club. This depth of Blades coverage costs, so to help us maintain the high-quality reporting that you are used to from the football team at The Star, please consider taking out a subscription to our new discounted sports-only package. You'll find all the details HERE. Your support is much appreciated. Chris Holt, Football Editor