Mathew Leckie has urged Socceroos fans to tone down their reactions after Robbie Kruse received a barrage of abuse and threats of violence on social media.

Kruse has been targeted for a disappointing performance at the World Cup, with even members of his family being threatened online.

Such has been the ferocity of the abuse, Australian team members have been forced to defend Kruse.

“It’s just disappointing — not just for him, but for all players,” Leckie said.

“We’re representing Australia and it’s the people back home that are saying bad things. It’s understandable that they might like [some] players more than others. But it doesn’t give anyone the right to abuse a player.”

Watch the full video below.