Midfielder Flood was again instrumental as new boss Jackie McNamara made it back-to-back victories with a 3-1 Premier League win over Hearts at Tannadice on Saturday.
Flood notched a quality second goal in the second half as new manager McNamara watched his side move into sixth place in the SPL thanks to Johnny Russell's second-minute strike and substitute Michael Gardyne's 89th-minute clincher.
Flood has been given a new lease of life since McNamara replaced departed boss Peter Houston recently, and Tangerines team-mate Mackay-Steven was quick to sing his praises after beating the Jambos.
He said: "Willo has been outstanding for us in the past two games.
"His goal was quality and his overall performance was of the highest order.
"Willo is big player for the club.
"He's the one who really gets everyone up for training every day and urges them on.
"Willo expects the highest standards from those around him and he's always there to do his bit as well.
"He looks as though he's really enjoying his football right now and long may that continue, along with the rest of the lads."
Mackay-Steven was on the receiving end of a controversial first-half challenge from Hearts midfielder Ryan Stevenson which earned the Tynecastle man a red card from referee Willie Collum.
Mackay-Steven felt it was harsh but vowed not to change his attacking ways.
He said: "I won't be changing my ways.
"That's how I play. I like taking players on as that's a big part of my game.
"Sometimes these kind of challenges happen but it doesn't put me off.
"We're on a decent wee run just now and just want to try to continue if for as long as possible.
"We've got a big game coming up away to Celtic next and we can hopefully go there with some confidence."
Meanwhile, Hearts manager John McGlynn may appeal Stevenson's sending-off once he watches it over again on television.
He said: "I'll have to see it again. When I do that then we can maybe look at appealing it.
"The people who've seen it thought it was a bit harsh but personally I would need to watch it for myself."
McNamara saluted his players for their second victory on the bounce since taking charge.
He said: "I've got to praise the lads for their effort and commitment.
"They started the game really well and my only disappointment was that we lost a goal."
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