A number of famous Saints fans and city leaders took to social media to share their reaction after Saints left Wembley heartbroken.

The club left empty handed after a late header from Zlatan Ibrahimovic sealed the EFL Cup final for Jose Mourinho's Manchester United.

Singer-songwriter Craig David said: “@SouthamptonFC be proud of your performance today. Yes we didn't win, but the way you played and created chances was superb. Congrats Man U.”

Hampshire-born sprinter Iwan Thomas added: “Great effort, [got to] say, proud of Southampton.”

Made In Chelsea star Ollie Locke, who grew up in Southampton, joked: “I'm not a football fan but I am a Southamptoner... Lovely to let underdogs win sometimes!”

The brave effort from Saints was summed up by former Saints player Alan Shearer, who said: “Southampton players were shaking their heads as they walked up the steps as they wonder what could have been.

“I think they certainly had more energy than Manchester United for most of the match.

“They can feel very unlucky they are only collecting losers’ medals.”

Meanwhile, Southampton councillor Satvir Kaur tweeted: “Gutted! Unlucky #saintsfc - well played! Chins up... we'll get 'em [sic] next time.”

Southampton City Council also tweeted: “Gutted. But a heroic performance. Hold your heads high lads #COYR #WeMarchOn.”

Royston Smith, MP for Southampton Itchen, added: "So very proud of @SouthamptonFC today. A fantastic performance on the pitch. The @EFLCup cup could so easily have been ours."

Hampshire Police’s football unit said: “What an amazing atmosphere today the Saints fans were a credit to their club, safe journey home to all.”