The Bosnian striker had scored two FA Cup and two Europa League goals before yesterday’s strike, but he will be massively relieved to have netted his first Premier League strike.

Dzeko’s goal was enough for a crucial three points in the race for a Champions League spot too, so there is no wonder he and Mancini were happy with life after the game against Blackburn Rovers.

The Manchester City boss said: “I'm very happy for Edin because he deserves to score, he is a good player and a good man. I am sure it will help his confidence. Edin is a fantastic striker.”

The former Wolsburg man had previously gone nine league games without a goal and was in and out of the side a fair amount. This didn’t help his cause according to Mancini.

“He had problems with not playing some games and had difficulties not scoring but tonight he scored an important goal for us. It was not easy for him so I will enjoy tonight.”

With Carlos Tevez injured at the moment, much emphasis is on the other strikers at the club and Mancini believes it is very important for the team that Dzeko has opened his Premier League account.

He also reserved praised for Mario Balotelli, saying the Italian was ‘fantastic’ at Ewood Park, so he was extremely content after the hard fought win and believes his team are in good shape to secure a Champions League place this season.

Mancini continued: “It was a very big win, especially as it was away from home, because at this stage every game is difficult. We found it difficult to play football but we deserved to win.”

As things stand, the Eastlands club sit four points above Tottenham in the race for 4^th place and those who bet with paypal will note that they are favourites to stay where they are.

Although their lead may seem a comfortable one with five games to go, City face Spurs next month, so there are plenty of twists and turns to come.

Before the visit of Harry Redknapp’s men, Mancini sees his side take on West Ham and Everton.

He will be hoping that Dzeko and Balotelli remain in form for these games to possibly increase the gap on Spurs before the crucial clash at Eastlands.