Mowbray backs Boro keeper Steele

Last updated : 29 November 2010 By BBC Sport

Middlesbrough boss Tony Mowbray has defended goalkeeper Jason Steele despite the two sloppy goals conceded in Saturday's 2-2 draw with Hull City.Steele allowed a shot from Robert Koren to squirm through for City's opener, and was beaten by Anthony Gerrard's header on a snowy Riverside pitch.

"He won't get criticism off me because he's been fantastic since I walked into the club," Mowbray told BBC Tees.

"He's a young guy with a great attitude to work and to getting better."

Mowbray added: "Hopefully he can be the goalkeeper for a long time here at Middlesbrough."

Although the former Celtic boss was disappointed with his side's defensive display, the Teessiders were rewarded for their attacking endeavour in the shape of goals for Leroy Lita and Scott McDonald, with Kris Boyd left on the bench.

"I'm delighted for them. It's a big decision every week [as to who plays up front]," Mowbray continued.

"You look at the opposition, you look at how you're going to play and one of the strikers is going to be disappointed.

"We went with Leroy and Scott today and they both got a goal and I'm pleased for them."

Source: BBC Sport

Source: BBC Sport