Boyd has scored five goals for Middlesbrough in 16 appearances

Middlesbrough boss Tony Mowbray has urged supporters to recognise the strengths of striker Kris Boyd rather than focus on his short-comings.

Boyd has been criticised by fans after a slow start to life on Teesside but netted his fifth goal of the season in Tuesday's 2-0 win at Scunthorpe.

"People concentrate on negatives, but with enough games his tally is about one in two," Mowbray told BBC Tees.

"He has the intelligence of knowing where to stand and where to be."

Mowbray added: "Let's hope there's more waiting in the bag."

The Scotland international, 27, joined Middlesbrough from Scottish Premier League side Rangers in July, and has so far made 16 appearances for the club.

Meanwhile, Mowbray has been pleased with the response of his players following his return to his boyhood club as manager last month.

Although Middlesbrough were beaten in Mowbray's first game in charge at home to Bristol City, his players have bounced back to win the last two matches against Crystal Palace and Scunthorpe.

"Early on what's important is to get results and turn round the mentality of the team and the town," Mowbray said.

"We need to believe that we can push on and hopefully the back-to-back wins there can do that.

"That said, we've got a very difficult task on Sunday going to Swansea, but obviously we're delighted with the two wins.

"To get the first [away] win was crucial."

Victory at Glanford Park lifted the Teessiders to 19th in the Championship, three points clear of the relegation zone but just seven points outside the play-off places.

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