Steve Bruce praised substitute Robert Koren after his late goal against Ipswich sent Hull City six points clear of promotion rivals Watford.
The Tigers boss said it was fitting his captain had come off the bench to secure a 2-1 win at Portman Road with a superb headed goal.
"It was a great header," said Bruce.
"It baffles me why people criticise him because that's nine goals he's scored from midfield this season.
"The kid's been terrific.
"The advantage of him, and why we were so desperate to sign him, is those goals from midfield.
"He's played a crucial part and he's our top goalscorer, which is a wonderful achievement."
City dominated the first half at Ipswich and took a deserved lead when Robbie Brady slotted home a 27th-minute penalty.
But the Tractor Boys came out fighting after the break and equalised through Anthony Wordsworth.
That set the stage for Koren - dropped by Bruce after a number of tired performances in recent weeks - to snatch a crucial three points with a bullet header from Brady's cross.
And with Watford losing 3-2 at Peterborough, City need seven points from four games to guarantee a return to the Premier League.
"It's a wonderful position to be in, but that's all it is," said Bruce.
"It's only significant if we win [at Wolves] on Tuesday.
"That won't be easy because of the situation they're in.
"But if we can win we could be near enough there, if results go our way and we win next Friday."
