Stockport County boss Jim Gannon has praised top scorer Liam Dickinson as the driving force behind their team's run of eight wins in nine games.

Dickinson struck his 18th goal of the season from the spot to secure County's 2-1 midweek win against Mansfield Town.

That lifted them within goal difference of the automatic promotion places.

And the County boss told BBC Radio Manchester: ""Liam was phenomenal again against Mansfield. His durability was a constant threat.

"He's such a fantastic athlete, such a skilful forward that I don't think you can get any more in one player.

"He's got the height, he's got the athleticism, he's got the speed, he's got the skill, he's got the finishing and he also creates things.

"He's having a fantastic season and great credit to him because he's really enjoying his football and has moved up to another level.

"Liam and Tommy Rowe have been the driving force behind the succession of wins we've enjoyed."