McDonald, 26, joined the English Championship club from Scottish giants Celtic during the January transfer window.

The Australian international, though, has managed just seven appearances and one goal for Boro as he's battled injuries since arriving on Teeside.

"He has just not got going and I am afraid that happens sometimes," Strachan said. "I know what he can do, he doesn't have to prove anything to me.

"He just wants to get back playing and scoring goals, he wants to win games for the club.

"He can't do it at the moment because he is injured, but it's one of those things, we will just get on with it."

McDonald's latest problem is a hamstring injury which was expected to keep him out until mid-April, although Strachan said earlier this week the Aussie could be a chance to return for the weekend's clash with Crystal Palace.