Malky Mackay: 'I couldn't have asked for more from Wigan Athletic players'

Wigan Athletic manager Malky Mackay has bemoaned his side's 1-0 defeat away at Middlesbrough, claiming that he couldn't have asked for more from his players.

Patrick Bamford's first-half goal at the Riverside was enough to give Aitor Karanka's charges all three points and climb to the top of the Championship.

Meanwhile, the Latics have slipped to 23rd place following their defeat, as Millwall leapfrogged them with a 2-1 win against Charlton Athletic.

Mackay told BBC Sport after the game: "I am really disappointed for the players. I thought they were terrific and went toe to toe with a Middlesbrough side that's on the verge of being promoted.

"In the second half we had two or three good chances and overall we deserved something. We showed real courage. If we keep playing like that I can't ask for any more."

Wigan, five points from safety, welcome Derby County to the DW Stadium on Easter Monday.