Dzeko record gives Mancini a headache ahead of FA Cup final

Although he has found himself residing on the sidelines for much of this season, Edin Dzeko reiterated his class when leading the line against West Brom, scoring the winner in a 1-0 victory.

Following that performance, Roberto Mancini described the Bosnian as “one of the best in Europe,” and with the FA Cup Final imminent, the City boss now has a serious decision to make regarding his strike force for a match the Citizens head into as 4/11 favourites.

Dzeko has very much found himself playing second fiddle to diminutive duo Carlos Tevez and Sergio Aguero throughout the campaign.

And, as such, the Bosnian international has started only 15 games in the league.

However, despite having had less playing time than both of his Argentine counter parts, he has scored 13 goals this term and leads City’s scoring charts in the Premier League.

Dzeko’s aerial prowess and physicality means he offers something different to the likes of Tevez and Aguero and Mancini may opt to leave the big man up front with one of them in behind. The adoption of this tactic would mean there would be some value in the 5/1 for Dzeko to score first if he starts.

With the plethora of talent City possess that Mancini will struggle to find fault with any of his options.

Tevez is experiencing a drought by his own very high standards, having failed to find the net since the end of April in a 4-0 win over Newcastle. However, he worked very well with Dzeko in the victory over West Brom, providing the cross for the ex-Wolfsburg man to sweep home.

The former United hitman also leads by example and his work rate in a big game like this could set the tone for City. Having scored five goals in the FA Cup this year, it would also be somewhat unfair to drop him now. As he is likely to start then, the 4/1 about him to strike first could be tempting.

Aguero has struggled with injuries this year, but again, is a big game player, as Manchester United fans will only know too well after last season.

If opting for Dzeko, it is more likely that Aguero would get the chop. Nevertheless, it is probable that enter the fray at some point and therefore the evens on offer for him to notch anytime and Man City to win could be a good bet.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.