Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini is delighted for fans after winning the Premier League yesterday.

The Italian followed in the footsteps of Joe Mercer and Wilf Wild in guiding the Blues to English football's pinnacle.

"This is a great day for City and most of all for the supporters," beamed Mancini who delivered the FA Cup last season but refused to acknowledge title favouritism for most of the run in.

"It has been 44 years since this club last had their hands on the title and everyone at City knows that is too long. We did it the hard way but I am told that is the City way.

"The supporters have never lost faith or patience - even in the last five minutes today - and we are so pleased that this season, we have delivered some history for them.

"Manchester United is a great club and a great opponent and to have come out on top in a fight for the title with them is fantastic.

"Every week the ground is full and the noise for the team is huge. I have said many times this season that no one should underestimate the help that players get from having a crowd supporting them in this way. It drives us on when things are possible not going so well."