Middlesbrough goalkeeper coach Stephen Pears says management have full confidence in goal-shy striker Afonso Alves.

Pears told the Evening Gazette: "I thought Afonso was unlucky not to get a goal against Newcastle.

"He gave everything he could. I have watched him on the training ground and the goals have been flying in. I've stood behind the keepers and watched Afonso shooting. The ball dips and swerves all over the place.

"As long as he keeps getting in the right positions, then the goals will come."

Alves has scored three times this season, including a free kick against Stoke and a penalty against Manchester City.

Otherwise his only goal in open play was the terrific finish which gave Boro the lead at Blackburn.

Pears said: "It would be nice to see Afonso get another goal soon, but then he's a top quality striker and it's only a matter of time before he makes the breakthrough.

"We've got a lot of games over Christmas and Afonso is sure to get plenty of chances."