Weaver has taken advantage of new signing Andreas Isaksson's injury concerns to re-establish himself in the side.

The 27-year-old's future at one time looked bleak as he struggled to overcome serious knee problems.

However he refused to give up and clawed his way back through the reserves and into the first team.

Weaver heads for the Barclays Premiership match at Charlton on Saturday in confident mood after his fourth clean sheet of the season in the victory against Middlesbrough.

Pearce said: "Nicky has been sensational. I feared whether he would come back to the level we needed him to be at.

"But he proved himself last year in the reserves and was a massive benefit to the young players around him.

"He got his opportunity this season and has gone from strength to strength both physically and ability wise.

"The fact he has kept a number of clean sheets already is testament to him."

Pearce is also pleased with the continued work ethic of striker Paul Dickov, who turned 34 this week.

The Scottish striker turned in a typically industrious performance against Boro on Monday.

Pearce added: "Paul puts the team before himself. I cannot say that about too many people in the professional game.

"He is not going to shirk a challenge and I am sure other managers know what a good pro he is.

"Players like Paul are worth their weight in gold in what they can bring to a team."