Adam Johnson's Nottingham Panthers teammate has spoken out against the 'hate' directed at Matt Petgrave after Johnson tragically died during a game of ice hockey.
Johnson tragically died after a 'freak accident' during a match against the Sheffield Steelers on 28 October.
The American ice hockey player was accidentally slashed in the neck with more than 8,000 spectators watching on, with witnesses saying players from both teams formed a ring around Johnson after he suffered the fatal injury.
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Tributes have poured in for Johnson, with fans leaving hockey sticks outside his house as a symbol of respect, but there have also been harsh words from some directed at Sheffield Steelers player Matt Petgrave.
Johnson's teammate Westin Michaud took to social media to condemn the hateful messages being sent to Petgrave and urged people to 'come together'.
"I need to address something about the accident. We wholeheartedly stand with Matt Petgrave," he wrote on X, formerly Twitter.
"The hate that Matt is receiving is terrible and completely uncalled for. I was at ice level on the bench closest to the accident, I saw both players moving fast.
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"The unintentional clip of the Panther player's leg by the Sheffield player caused the somersault.
"It's clear to me his actions were unintentional and anyone suggesting otherwise is mistaken. Let's come together and not spread unwarranted hate to someone who needs are support."
Following her son's tragic death Johnson's mum Kari posted a video of Adam's first goal in the National Hockey League, saying it was 'the only video of Adam Johnson that should be circulating around the internet'.
Johnson's team released a statement following his tragic death.
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They said: "The Panthers would like to send our thoughts and condolences to Adam's family, his partner, and all his friends at this extremely difficult time.
"Everyone at the club including players, staff, management, and ownership are heartbroken at the news of Adam's passing. Our thoughts are also with the fans and staff of both clubs, especially those who attended or were following the game, who will be devastated following today's news.
"The Panthers would like to thank everyone who rushed to support Adam last night in the most testing of circumstances.
"Adam, our number 47, was not only an outstanding ice hockey player, but also a great teammate and an incredible person with his whole life ahead of him. The club will dearly miss him and will never ever forget him.
"We ask that the privacy of Adam's family and friends, and everyone at the club is respected at this difficult time as we all seek to come to terms with out grief.
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"Rest in peace Adam."
Joe Harker