Ipswich Town midfielder Luke Hyam has promised his critics that he will start playing more positively.

The former Northgate High School pupil was jeered during the 1-1 home draw with Watford prior to Christmas, the reaction coming after he over-hit one sideways pass into touch and then turned to play the ball backwards under no pressure moments later.

Blues boss Mick McCarthy launched a passionate defence of the 22-year-old after that match and told supporters to get behind a player who always gives everything for his hometown club.

Privately he did offer some constructive criticism though and Hyam was noticeably more advanced and forward-thinking in last Saturday’s 3-1 home defeat to QPR and Tuesday’s 3-2 loss at Preston.

“I haven’t been pleased with how I’ve performed this season, but the last couple of games I feel I’ve picked up and I just want to carry that on now,” said the ever-industrious midfielder, who covers more ground than most but is very rarely among the assists or goals.

“I’ve spoken to the manager about what he wants and I agreed with what he said.

“He brought me into his office last week and we looked at some DVD footage, just me and him, for 10 or 15 minutes. It helped me understand what I’ve done wrong and what I could do better.

“I think I’ve been more positive in going forwards and driving forwards, I’ve tried to pass forwards more often too.”

He continued: “It’s not nice getting stick from the crowd. It doesn’t matter where you’re working, it’s not nice having people on your back. It’s just part and parcel of being a footballer though. Everyone is entitled to their opinion, I take it on board and I will look to win them over.

“I’ve always tried to do my best for the fans, the club and the manager.

“Thankfully the manager has shown good faith in me, he reminds me of the good things I do that not everyone notices, and now I just want to repay that faith. I just want to keep improving and be the best I can be.

“I’m young, I’ve still got a lot to learn and I know I am nowhere near the complete player yet.”

McCarthy said: “I thought Luke was excellent against QPR. He played a bit further forward. He was always asked to play as a defensive midfield player before I came here apparently; be the sitter, win the ball and give it to somebody else. We’ve asked him to be a bit more offensive, to play forward quicker and, do you know what, he’s trying his damndest to do it. I thought he played well at Preston on Tuesday too.”