Ainsley Maitland-Niles was brought off at half time in Ipswich's victory over Reading but has been "different class" at times this season, according to the club's manager
Ipswich manager Mick McCarthy has defended Arsenal loanee Ainsley Maitland-Niles against criticism from the club's supporters.
The 18-year-old Gunners midfielder is on a season-long loan at Portman Road and has made 26 appearances for the Championship club.
McCarthy replaced Maitland-Niles at half time in Ipswich's 2-1 victory over Reading on February 2 and was "extremely unhappy" with the fans' reaction to his performance.
"At times he's been different class, other times he's been mediocre or ordinary, but overall I think he's been seven out of 10," McCarthy told reporters.
"He had a tough time the other night. I was extremely unhappy by the crowd towards him as it's not going to help."
He added: "We've taken a young player on loan from Arsenal and he's come here to help us and in the main he has. I love him, he's a great kid."
Maitland-Niles has scored two goals in his 26 outings for Ipswich, most recently striking in the FA Cup replay defeat to Portsmouth.
- Goal