Scott McDonald received further adulation from Middlesbrough manager Tony Mowbray despite playing a fourth Championship match without scoring.
The Australian international has just one goal for 'Boro in five matches this season but the club sits third on the table following their 2-0 away win at Burnley on Saturday.
The goals at Turf Moor were scored by Nick Bailey and Joe Bennett but that didn't stop 'Mogga' from heaping praise on McDonald and strike partner Marvin Emnes.
"While neither striker scored, they gave us a great platform to build on," Mowbray told the club's official website.
"They didn't score but they both looked a threat and worked tirelessly for the team.
"Strikers have to work hard for the team and put themselves into positions where they can hurt the opposition."
Middlesbrough have now won four and drawn two from their opening six league outings and take on eighth-placed Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on the coming weekend.
