Ipswich Town manager Mick McCarthy has encouraged Luke Hyam to take no notice of the criticism that he has received from some of the club's supporters.
Groans were heard at Portman Road on occasions when the midfielder had given away possession and missed the chance to score during Saturday's 1-1 home draw at Watford.
It prompted the 22-year-old to write on Twitter: "I love haters so keep on hating."
When asked about the situation, McCarthy told reporters: "Read all the good stuff, take no notice of the negative stuff. Listen, there is always numpties out there who want to write on Twitter and wherever else on the internet. I'm being careful with my language there as well!
"I don't know why they do it because it doesn't make anybody play any better. The majority of our supporters are fantastic but there are an odd few who create a negative environment in which to play in. It does my head in.
"What you'll find is that he'll get great support, certainly from me and all the players, because we value what he does. He's somebody who puts a shift in every week. Is he the greatest footballer in the world? No he isn't, because if he was he wouldn't be here. He gives his all for Ipswich and that's what people should appreciate."
Hyam has risen through the ranks with the Championship club.
