Arsenal midfielder Ainsley Maitland-Niles says he's 'developing a lot quicker' on loan at West Bromwich Albion.

The 23-year-old has been used regularly as a midfielder for Albion since joining in January.

"I think I'm developing a lot quicker here because you're consistently improving your game and fighting to be the best, even when the odds are against you," Maitland-Niles is quoted as saying by Birmingham Live.

"First and foremost, it's just great to be here playing games and earning the trust of the manager. It was always going to be different coming from one team to another who are at opposite sides of the table.

"So it's a different type of challenge, but you have to bring your best in everyday to try and work hard to get out of the position we're in.

"The gaffer is very honest and will tell you anything you need to hear. He's straight to the point with how he feels. So you can either put your head down and take the criticism as a negative, or you can take it in a positive way.

"He only says these things because he cares and it's a help to us all. I love the direct approach he has."