Berge, Egan, Basham: How 'proud' Sheffield United players reacted to play-off heartache

Sheffield United players have been taking to social media this week in the wake of their Championship play-off semi-final defeat to Nottingham Forest on Tuesday. The Blades were a penalty shoot-out away from securing a place in the final at Wembley after a thrilling comeback at the City Ground.

Although it was a heart-breaking way for their season to end, they entered the summer with pride after the way they finished the campaign. They were 16th in the table when Paul Heckingbottom was appointed in November but finished fifth to set up the two-legged fixture with Steve Cooper's side.

Here's a round-up of what has been said this week and how those inside the Sheffield United dressing room reacted to their season coming to an end.

"That one hurt. Lucky to be a part of a team who give it everything every single time. Thanks for the support all season you Blades are incredible."

"Words can't justify how I'm feeling right now. First of all I wanna say sorry for the other night, but I'm so proud of the team and how we finished the season and I hope you guys can continue that in the next.

"Thank you to the players, staff and especially the fans for showing me all the love from day one. I appreciate you all for bringing me some of my best memories in my career so far. I don't think there will be a more exciting feeling than scoring in front of the Kop end.

"I wish you all nothing but the best in the future. Once a Blade always a Blade."

"Proud of this team. Showed incredible character to the end. Thanks to the fans for the brilliant support all season. UTB"

"Still processing Tuesday night. Great effort by everyone involved. Team showed incredible spirit and I am proud of every single one of my team-mates and staff.

"From the