Liverpool defender Neco Williams admits he found it hard to cope with the "horrible" social media abuse he suffered last season.
Williams was targeted by several Reds supporters having struggled for form when deputising for Trent Alexander-Arnold during the opening months of the 2020/21 campaign.
The 20-year-old was singled out after the 7-2 Carabao Cup win at Lincoln City in September 2020 after which he chose to temporarily change his Twitter profile and header photos to all black.
The Wales international, who has been impressing at Fulham having joined the Championship leaders in January, was subject to regular criticism throughout a difficult season for the Reds.
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And Williams has explained how the abuse started to affect his everyday life at Liverpool.
"I had a hard time on social media when I was probably 19," he said. "I remember that time quite well because it was the first ever time that I got abused on Twitter for one of my performances.
"I'm not going to lie, it was a very tough time. Everything was just horrible on there, and that was the first time I've ever experienced that.
"I didn't want to be around anyone. I just went straight to my house in Liverpool and stayed there on my own.
"I just felt angry, embarrassed. I didn't know what to do."
Williams added: "Looking back on it now, I just wish I would've spoken to more people.
"I would 100% tell younger people to connect with real people and tell them what's going on, how you're feeling and just get it all off your chest. "
Neco Williams was speaking to versus in partnership with Childline. Those who need support can call Childline on 0800 1111 or find support online at Childline
