Manchester City striker Edin Dzeko has claimed that 'cheat' allegations were the reason for a heated argument during his side's draw with Sunderland.

Dzeko and Sunderland defender Phil Bardsley were split up by fellow players after the Bosnian striker was apparently accused of diving to win a penalty for his side.

The 26-year-old said: "One guy pushed me away and said 'Why are you cheating?' so I asked him what he was talking about and said "It was a penalty'. That's why I was angry.

"He said I was cheating — he can say what he wants, but should never touch me.

"It was a penalty — I still have pain in my leg."

Manchester City are currently second in the Premier League.