Man City 2 Tottenham 1: Dzeko praises the Citizens’ strong character

Edin Dzeko heaped praise on Manchester City for showing strong character to mount a successful comeback after the Bosnia-Herzegovina striker inspired the Citizens to victory over Tottenham Hotspur.

The visitors took a first-half lead when Steven Caulker rose above the City defence and directed a powerful header at Joe Hart, with the England goalkeeper diverting the ball into his own net.

However, Mancini’s men responded after the interval, and Sergio Aguero combined with substitute Dzeko to level before the former Wolfsburg striker latched onto David Silva’s pass and fired past Brad Friedel to secure three points at the Etihad Stadium.

“From another free-kick, we conceded a goal. It was stupid like against Arsenal,” Dzeko told Sky Sports. “We have to improve on this area.

“We played better after that, we deserved the win in the end.

“It’s not the first time we’ve come from behind and it shows our character and that we are strong.

“I hope next time we take a 1-0 lead and win the game. It’s much harder to play [when you have to come from behind] like today.”

The 27-year-old has been used largely as an impact substitute this season, with the forward scoring four Premier League goals from the bench.

However, when asked if he had any statement for his manager Mancini, Dzeko said: “The goals are my only message.”