Manchester City striker Edin Dzeko is up for the challenge of adding a physical element to his game as he adapts to the tough nature of the Premier League. Since the Bosnia-Herzegovina international's £27million move from Wolfsburg last month he has scored two goals - both against League One side Notts County - in eight appearances.
"It's harder here but I will get used to it. It is something new for me," he said.
"The referees don't whistle for everything here - in the Bundesliga every small contact is a foul.
"The coach (Roberto Mancini) says to me it is different in Italy and Germany as the referees whistle everything.
"I hope I can get used to it, and have to get stronger. I have to play stronger.
"In some situations in Germany where I am not so strong it is no problem but in England it is different. You have to fight for every ball.
"I am okay mentally. When I don't score for two or three games and then lose the ball I always keep my head up."
However, Dzeko is confident he can forge profitable partnerships with both Carlos Tevez and Mario Balotelli.
"We showed in the second half how we (he and Tevez) can play together and also in the first half I played well with Mario and we understood each other," said the 24-year-old.
"Everyone could see it. Communication is important and when you have an understanding with someone on the pitch it is the most important thing.
"Carlos has been here a long time and I am the one getting used to everything, so when I settle we will all play much better.
"I know I can play much better and I will work hard and show people.
"Strikers are expected to score and I have two goals in eight games.
"When you see this, you can think it's not good, but I try to work also for the team, not just to try to score.
"I try to assist team-mates. I am not a player who stays on the edge of the box and waits for a chance."
