Sheffield United star Billy Sharp was left needing stitches after a vicious attack by a pitch-invading Nottingham Forest fan during wild celebrations at the City Ground.
A man has been arrested on suspicion of assault following the incident.
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Brice Samba was the hero as Nottingham Forest reached the Championship play-off final at Wembley, saving three penalties in the shootout.
But the evening was totally soured by a disgraceful attack on Blades striker Sharp, 36, who was standing watching the celebrations.
Sky Sports captured a yob running full speed at Sharp just seconds after the penalties, sending him crashing him to the floor with a headbutt.
A club spokesperson confirmed to media that Sharp was left needing stitches after the disgusting incident.
Furious United manager Paul Heckingbottom said: "It's assault. We've seen one of our players attacked."He's shook up, bleeding, angry. It'll be dealt with.
"Heckingbottom added: "We're seeing things thrown on the pitch and things that are thrown on putting players' health and safety in danger and nothing's ever done about it.
"There will be something done about that. We've seen what's happened, we know what's happened. There's a prison sentence there without a doubt."
Sharp said he would not let the incident at the end of the game "ruin the respect" he has for the Forest fans, while he vowed that Sheffield United will be back next season to once again attempt to return to the Premier League.
Writing on Twitter on Wednesday morning, the Blades captain said: "One mindless idiot ruined what was an unbelievable night of football. Congratulations to Nottingham Forest on their victory and good luck in the final. As an ex-Forest player I will not let one scumbag ruin my respect for the Forest fans.
"Incredibly proud to be captain of this group of Sheffield United players. They gave their all and can hold their heads up high. We will be back and go again. Thanks for all your messages and support after the incident."
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