FORMER footballer Michael Owen has slammed a shocking Tweet directed towards his daughter, Love Island star Gemma.

The former Liverpool and England striker, who lives in Flintshire, has faced an endless stream of Twitter trolls since it was revealed that Gemma would be taking part in the latest series of the hit ITV show.

However, he has not publicly hit out at any of the messages - until now.

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Paul Proud, whose Twitter profile claims he is a scout and manager for the under 18's academy at Glasgow City FC girls and women's team, sparked outrage from Owen and others with a Tweet he posted.

The sickening Tweet from Proud's account read: "Can't wait to see her getting smashed," followed by laughing-face emojis and a thumbs-up.

Defending daughter Gemma, who is 19 years old, Owen simply replied: "What a fine example to set from a man in your responsible position."

Others shocked by the Tweet on the thread called it a 'disgrace' and 'vulgar'.

Both Paul Proud's account and the Tweet have since been deleted.

Owen added that this message was 'amongst hundred of examples' he had received since daughter Gemma entered the Love Island villa.

On Sunday's episode (June 12), Gemma's ex-boyfriend and rugby player Jacques O'Neill arrived in the villa to stir things up.

Now, it is also being rumoured that another one of her former flames - ex-Wrexham AFC defender Cameron Green - could be set to join them on this year's cast.