Boyd (right) remains the all-time top scorer in the Scottish Premier League

Middlesbrough manager Gordon Strachan believes his side will need to work harder to produce the best performances from striker Kris Boyd.

Boyd opened his Boro account in Sunday's 1-0 win over Sheffield United but Strachan is convinced his players can do more to accommodate the forward.

"If we give him some chances he will finish them," Strachan told BBC Tees.

"To get the best out of him we have to give him the ball. And to do that our passing has to be better."

Boyd joined Middlesbrough from Scottish Premier League champions Rangers during pre-season, signing a two-year deal at the Riverside.

Meanwhile Strachan has urged his fringe players to make the most of a string of injuries in the midfield to impress.

Among the players thrown into first-team action against Sheffield United were Scottish winger Andy Halliday who returned from injury to start, Argentine midfielder Julio Arca and teenage striker Luke Williams.

The former Celtic boss is keen to see those players forge an impression.

"We've got a lot of good midfield players missing at the moment, but once we get them right, the passing right we'll make more chances," Strachan added.

"I'm giving footballers a chance and it's up to them to take it. They've got assets, beating people and taking people on, and they've got to add to it.

"As Jock Stein once said to me: 'If you're not passing the ball right Gordon, then you're no use to us whatsoever'.

"He was right, if you've got assets, use them; if you're not using them right, then don't come moaning to me expecting to be in the team."

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