Alan Smith reacts to criticism of Arsenal star Ainsley Maitland-Niles

Pundit defends Arsenal talent.

Ainsley Maitland-Niles of Arsenal in action during the UEFA Europa League group H match between 1. FC Koeln and Arsenal FC at RheinEnergieStadion on November 23, 2017 in Cologne, Germany.

Ex- Arsenal striker Alan Smith has defended youngster Ainsley Maitland-Niles.

Maitland-Niles came in for criticism from fans despite the Gunners’ 2-1 away win over Huddersfield Town at the weekend.

Smith was alerted to the harsh words being directed at Maitland-Niles and he lambasted the current culture which fails to protect young players.

Maitland-Niles was filling in on the right side of midfield and defence amid an injury crisis.

Words fail me on this Stu. Are these people really Arsenal supporters? Take me back to the days when a youth product like AML was cherished and encouraged https://t.co/L08CWyLeRG
— Alan Smith (@9smudge) February 10, 2019

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Arsenal came close to keeping a clean sheet, with Huddersfield only scoring a late consolation.

Maitland-Niles, 21, was making his sixth Premier League start of the season.

Arsenal are in fifth position, overtaking Chelsea who were beaten 6-0 by Manchester City.

Ainsley Maitland-Niles of Arsenal runs with the ball during the Carabao Cup Fourth Round match between Arsenal and Blackpool at Emirates Stadium on October 31, 2018 in London, England.

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Alan Smith reacts to criticism of Arsenal star Ainsley Maitland-Niles