Man City 1-0 Coventry: Erling Haaland ensures perfect Premier League record is preserved under Enzo Maresca

The Norwegian has found the net 20 times in as many outings against Premier League newcomers, only failing against Sunderland last term. His towering header on this occasion was enough for all three points.

Man City might have spent a league-high £440m on new signings during the window, two making their debuts against Coventry, but it's undoubtedly Haaland who remains their greatest difference-maker.

£125m-rated Enzo Fernandez, a deadline day arrival, was involved in the goal. He was a late stand-in for Nico O'Reilly after the 21-year-old was injured in the warm-up, and showed his worth with a classy introductory performance. His pass to release Antoine Semenyo was the precursor to Haaland's decisive strike, scored in the 26th minute.

Coventry spent the remainder of the contest making life difficult for the home side. Summer addition Taiwo Awoniyi fluffed his chance of a one-on-one with Gianluigi Donnarumma, steering wide, while the City goalkeeper also made huge saves to rebuff Jack Rudoni's header at the back post and Ellis Simms late on.

Frank Lampard's side are yet to score a goal since their long-awaited return to the top flight. They came very close at the Etihad. But City's ruthless finisher had the final say with his 300th club goal. He continues to be undeniable as Man City move temporarily top of the Premier League - displacing Arsenal before they play Chelsea on Super Sunday .

"I was pleased with the win, for different reasons. We kept them [Coventry] alive. We couldn't score one or two more, at least. We suffer together until the end; not all the wins are going to be nice. We need these kinds of wins.

"It was a little bit of an ugly win. It's something we need and a clean sheet is important."

On the performance of Enzo Fernandez : "Enzo only arrived two days ago; he's been frustrated the last two or three weeks.

"In the end he plays from the start and I'm quite happy. We've shared time together, so it's easier because we know each other very well. And I know he's going to help us win games."

Lampard vows not to lose belief despite tough start

"Good performance from us. Felt like we deserved something from the game. Our defensive organisation was great. We created moments of pressure, three big chances. The players took on the challenge really well; they are disappointed and so am I.

"I never criticise players, because I understand pressure. This is the level. It's the brutal reality of it. But we don't play Manchester City every week. The Premier League is a high level, but on reflection there is a lot of good to use in our mentality.

"Against Arsenal it felt like a first Premier League game in 25 years. Today felt like a competitive Premier League team coming with a clear idea and threat. The fixture list has been tough on us. We can't lose belief off the back of three games and so we must look forward."