Mark Kennedy praised on-loan defender Miguel Freckleton, claiming he has 'saved' Swindon on multiple occasions this season.

The young defender joined the Robins from Sheffield United on a season-long loan to help bolster options in defence.

Despite moments where there have been errors, the Irish manager has been happy with his performances this season.

“I really feel frustrated with the frustration around him. He’s statistically one of the best defenders in the league, that’s a fact.

“He’s got incredible attributes any manager would want and he’s somebody that puts himself  out there and on the line day in day out; I’m very proud to have him at our club.

“I think he’s been outstanding this year. Has he been involved in a couple of goals? Yes he has, but that’s why he’s on loan.

“But I tell you what, he’s had multiple games this year where he’s saved us time and time again.”

After the 2-1 defeat at Port Vale, the defender was involved in a high-profile incident where he lost the ball which led to a goal.

Kennedy discussed the mental side of things and how criticism can affect a player.

“I’m his biggest fan. First and foremost, as a person. He’s a very very thoughtful deep thinker, he’s an extremely intelligent young man, cares so much about the game, possibly the detriment of taking things to heart, he was bitterly disappointed at Port Vale.

“I had multiple conversations with him and we shared some lovely conversations and it’s heartbreaking to see somebody so upset because he feels like he’s let the coach, the team and the supporters down, and he hasn’t let anyone down!”

Freckleton warming up against CheltenhamFreckleton warming up against Cheltenham (Image: Andy Crook)

The former Liverpool winger elaborated on his role in supporting the individual and compared it to a teacher and their students.

“Kids in school, they make mistakes, they get things wrong, they go to exams, they don’t get 100%. What do teachers do? Help them get better and better and higher and higher.

“I’m pretty confident at the end of his career he would have played a lot of football games at a very high standard, so I feel really really lucky to have him.

“I have to say, I’ve got three young boys that I love with all my heart. If I had a young daughter, I’d want her to come home with a Miguel Freckleton and that’s the biggest compliment I can say.”