West Bromwich Albion striker Charlie Austin hit out at Southampton fans on social media.
The 30-year-old left St Mary's after three years last summer, joining the Baggies on a two-year deal.
But there appears to be no love lost between Saints fans and their former forward since his exit.
Austin quoted a tweet claiming that "social media is ruining our lives", adding: "Couldn't agree more it's a f****** joke, gives people and company's a platform say what they like without any remorse... think before you speak/tweet/post".
However, the striker, who scored 20 goals in 81 Saints appearances, took offence from certain comments left by Southampton fans.
One season ticket holder said: "Difficult to get behind a striker who couldn't run five minutes without huffing and puffing Chaz! Big mouth for a man who accelerates slower than a 50 tonne lorry on an icy slope.
"Blame the club that paid your wages and supports your kids instead of yourself. WHAT A ROLE MODEL," adding a laughing face and a middle finger emoji.
Austin hit back in a now-deleted tweet, writing: "Oh they didn't support my kids you cheeky c***, I support my family so relax your comments about them! Fire them at me but not them!! I'm all for fan/player banter but your fan base is s***!!"
Another fan said: "Didn't think when you insulted our whole fanbase and club did it tho chazza #Saintsfc."
Austin continued, responding: "You're s*** fans, you don't sing to get behind the team, only when they score, never when they need a boost."
Another interaction saw Austin respond with three crying emojis after a fan wrote: "You are on awful human being. Do u know how much money fans pay to watch the crap that we've watched at home the last few years?
"We'd always give support to a team that was giving 100% what does that say about u and your fellow players from that time?"
Austin was banned for two games last season after making a two-fingered gesture towards Manchester City fans and he famously vented his fury in an passionate post-match interview after his late winner against Watford was disallowed for offside.
The striker was an unused substitute as the Baggies drew 2-2 with Nottingham Forest on Saturday.
