Merouane Zemmama's winner delights Tony Mowbray

TONY Mowbray praised Merouane Zemmama after his late winner lifted Middlesbrough away from relegation danger.

The Moroccan has endeared himself to Boro fans since moving from Hibs during the January transfer window and netted a last-gasp goal in the 2-1 win over Derby County which leaves the Teeside club six points above the drop zone.

A delighted Mowbray said: "It was a good time for Zemmama to score, especially after I brought him off at half-time in the previous game. He was disappointed so it was great for him to come on and score the goal. It's great for a player who feeds off confidence. He wants the ball and likes to show people how clever he can be. Sometimes he does that in the wrong areas, but generally he's a very talented boy who can make a big difference."

The impact of Kris Boyd's loan departure to Nottingham Forest is already being felt with funds now available to secure a much-needed loan deal. Mowbray added: "It helps us on the financial side quite dramatically, so it was the right deal for the football club."