The Blues boss has seen the Argentina striker score three times during his short time in charge taking his tally to eight for December and a dozen for the season.
With an FA Cup tie at Middlesbrough and the Carling Cup semi final matches looming, it is a hot streak that that the manager hopes doesn’t cool any time soon.
“I do not like to pick put individuals because we have been collectively very good in the two games we have won against Stoke and Wolves but Carlos Tevez has been outstanding,” praised Mancini.
He is a world class striker who has shown that he is in top form
...Roberto Mancini
“He is playing with a smile on his face and eight goals in the month of December is just an incredible effort. Confidence is a great thing with players and especially when it comes to goal scoring.
“Carlos’ is not just putting the ball in the net though. His team ethic is fantastic and he has a good understanding with the players around him. His movement and pace worries defenders and he is clever too. He has scored 12 times already for the City since he came to the club and that is an impressive ratio.
“But like I said I have been impressed with everyone from Shay Given who is one of the best five goalkeepers in the world right the way through the side. They have shown a great appetite for their work and pride in their performance.”
There could be some switching of positions against Boro in the FA Cup tie as the manager seeks to get around a lengthy injury list and so many games in quick succession.
“Players will have to be flexible because we have a lot of injuries but already they have shown their willingness to fight for the team,” he said.
“I have been really pleased with the way the players have responded since I arrived. We have worked hard on concentration and organisation and we will need both those things against Middlesbrough.
“It has been a busy period and getting enough rest and recuperation into players has been vital. We have many injuries and some may have to play a part at Middlesbrough when they could do with a rest.
“After three wins in succession in the Premier League we have momentum on our side and I want us to maintain that in the FA Cup. It is a big competition, one of the most famous domestic cups in the world and one that is loved by the fans. I want to win it!”
