Former Nottingham Forest man Matty Cash has come out in support of Ukraine as Russia's invasion of the country continues.
Cash, now with Aston Villa, plays for the Poland national team - who are due to play Russia in a World Cup play-off game next month ahead of the tournament in Qater later this year.
Cash became a Polish citizen last year having qualified through his mother's side and made his debut for Czesław Michniewicz's side in November.
He showed his support for Ukraine by sharing a statement that has been released by Polish players in conjunction with the Polish Football Association.
In it the players and their FA make clear their feelings on the Russian invasion of Ukraine, that started on Thursday, and outline their wish not to play the play-off against Russia.
Ukraine borders Poland to the country's east and has started taking in refugees.
"We, the players of the Polish national team, together with the Polish Football Association, decided that as a result of Russia's aggression against Ukraine, we do not intend to play in the play-off match against Russia," a statement tweeted by Cash, along with the flags of Poland and Ukraine and a handshake emoji, read.
"It is not an easy decision, but there are more important things in life than football.
"Our thoughts are with the Ukrainian nation and our friend from the national team, Tomasz Kedziora, who is still in Kiev with his family."
The former Forest player's support for Ukraine has been echoed by plenty of Reds fans who have praised Cash for his bold stance.
Here is what some said on social media...
@NeilBellamy4: It's simple @mattycash622. Russia have to be kicked out.
@MomSaysImUltra: The right thing to do. This match was Poland’s chance to make the world cup, for context.
@tomv18: Well done, Cashy and all of the Poland football family. A tough decision to, potentially, miss out on playing in a World Cup. Hopefully @FIFAcom make the right call and kick out Russia so that Poland get the chance to play.
@WrtForest: I'm fully supportive of Polands decision. You have to act in support and not let Russia play as you know sport will be used to fuel Putins Propaganda
@AntlPop: You did us proud at Forest Matty, you are doing so again now. All respect to you.
@Nottingham_Arg: Te quiero mucho Matty Cash (translated: I love you Matty Cash)
Poland's most high profile player, Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski, also took to social media and wrote: "It is the right decision! I can't imagine playing a match with the Russian National Team in a situation when armed aggression in Ukraine continues.
"Russian footballers and fans are not responsible for this, but we can't pretend that nothing is happening."
