ADAMA TRAORE has credited work behind the scenes with new manager Tony Pulis for helping kick-start his Middlesbrough career.

The Spanish winger has blown hot and cold during his 18-month stint on Teesside. He seemed to lose his way completely under the tutelage of Garry Monk.

But Traore, who capped a man-of-the-match display with a first Boro goal against QPR, believes Pulis can help him earn a Premier League return.

The 3-0 win moved Middlesbrough to just two points off the play-offs, and Traore, 21, said: "The manager has helped me so much. Every day he speaks to me.

"He said to me he knows what I can do going forward and attacking players. But he wants me to work hard and help the team in other areas. I know what he wants for me.

"I say thank you to the gaffer for helping me with my defensive work. The gaffer has explained to everyone how to work as a team and we will only get better."

He added: "I think the team worked hard and we deserved the win. We had the chances and we took them, and I'm so happy for all the team. Last week against Fulham, we worked so hard and didn't get anything. Here we kept working and we have the result.

"We are moving in the right direction but we need to keep working hard. If we keep playing well, we have a chance. I have a dream and I hope we can make it. And I want to get back to the Premier League and be the best player I can be."

Reflecting on his long-awaited first goal in a Middlesbrough shirt, Traore said: "It was a great feeling to score. It's about the group working hard and winning games. 

"Everyone is happy with the team. We have a good relationship, whether we win or we lose, and we are in it together. We do have a good connection.

"I feel good and fit. I work hard to be better every day. I do feel there's more to come from me.

"I will keep trying to score more goals. I do my best for the team and today I finally scored - I love this team and the fans and hopefully I will score next week as well. But it's about the team doing well."

Traore was on the receiving end of a host of hefty tackles as the home side struggled to contain him.

The former Aston Villa wide-man says he relishes the rough and tumble of the Championship, and is not afraid of the physicality dished out in an attempt to stop him in his tracks.

"It's different to the Premier League," he added. "But I need to focus and work hard every week. I'm physical as well and I'm used to it. I need to keep working every day."