Dzeko receives boss boost

Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini is confident his big-money striker Edin Dzeko can become a force in the Premier League.Dzeko joined City for 27 million pounds in January but he is yet to score his first league goal ahead of Monday’s trip to Blackburn Rovers.

“I hope Dzeko can score in one of our remaining games this campaign,” Mancini said.

“Wayne Rooney did not score for months and Fernando Torres has not scored for Chelsea yet – this is football. It is difficult for strikers but this is football.”

“I believe he is one of the top strikers in Europe. I am sure next season he will be a top player for Manchester City.”

“It is difficult but the team is more important than any one player. It is difficult for him and for me but it is important he continues to work hard.”

Mancini said he did not like playing teams near the bottom of the table because they are fighting to avoid relegation.

Blackburn are just two points clear of the drop zone with five games remaining.