Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw withdrew from Manchester City’s League Cup semi-final against Arsenal after she was subjected to racist and misogynistic abuse at the weekend.
City were “appalled” at the “disgusting treatment” the Jamaica striker received after Sunday’s 4-3 home loss against the Gunners in the Women’s Super League.
Shaw pulled out of Thursday’s cup tie – which her side won 2-1 in injury time – to protect her mental wellbeing.
City boss Gareth Taylor said: “We are right behind her as a club. Let’s see how she is over the next couple of days and we can go from there.”
City have confirmed the content has been shared with the relevant authorities and an investigation will be held.
Shaw, 28, has decided not to share the messages in order to avoid giving the individuals responsible any publicity.
City will face Chelsea in the League Cup final at Derby County’s Pride Park on 15 March after Australia forward Mary Fowler’s 95th-minute winner.
Shaw has scored 86 goals for City and was their player of the year in each of the past two seasons, with Sunday’s league match against Arsenal her 100th for the club.
