Edin Dzeko's first goal for two months earned Manchester City a hard-fought 1-0 win at Wigan on Monday which sent Roberto Mancini's side three points clear at top of the Premier League.

The 25-year-old Bosnian's sublime 22nd minute header proved enough to sink the bottom club after Wigan goalkeeper Ali Al Habsi had threatened to frustrate the leaders.


Edin Dzeko of Manchester City. Pic/AFP.

Al Habsi produced a string of excellent saves both before and after Dzeko had netted his 14th goal for City this season.

David Silva, Sergio Aguero and Dzeko were all denied by the Oman international but City returned to winning ways to pull clear of nearest rivals Manchester United ahead of Sunday's big home game with third-placed Tottenham.

"I could have scored one or two more goals in the end, but I'm happy with the three points because it was a tough game and Wigan played very well," Dzeko told Sky Sports.

Having suffered back-to-back defeats in cup competition, an away game against basement team Wigan provided City with a perfect opportunity to snap out of their winter blues.