Ipswich Town manager Mick McCarthy has told Luke Hyam to ignore any negative online criticism following his difficult afternoon in Saturday’s 1-1 home draw with Watford.

The 22-year-old – born in Ipswich and a former Northgate High School pupil – over-hit a pass into touch early in the second half just as promising move was building. It drew a few gasps and groans from the Portman Road crowd, with McCarthy turning to those behind him and telling them to ‘shut up’ with some additional colourful language.

Moments later, when Hyam turned to play a pass backwards under little pressure, there were yet more groans from the crowd. He went on to miss a golden chance to win the match in the 87th minute, heading against the crossbar from close-range after Manuel Almunia had pushed the ball straight up in the air.

McCarthy issued a passionate defence of his player after the match, with Hyam writing on Twitter: “I love haters so keep on hating”.

Asked how Hyam should deal with any internet comments, McCarthy said: “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. But he gives his all for Ipswich and that’s what people should appreciate.”

Ipswich face Doncaster at the Keepmoat Satdium on Boxing Day. See Thursday’s EADT for full match preview.