The magical touch of Wes Hoolahan to create Cameron Jerome's opener against Bournemouth electrified Carrow Road and was a source of great satisfaction for the diminutive Dubliner as well.

The 33-year-old nutmegged Cherries' defender Steve Cook before crossing for Jerome to fire City ahead in the 35th minute, before scoring the second himself with a sumptuous strike from the edge of the area seven minutes after half-time.

His cross for the opener – while carrying one of his shin pads after it had come loose – took him level with Manchester City's Spanish star David Silva at the top of the Premier League's assists chart with four for the season, leaving Hoolahan with a big smile after the final whistle.

'It was a good performance,' the understated Irishman said.

'Especially the first goal, getting down the line and getting a little touch on it set us up nicely for the day.'

It continued an excellent start to September for Hoolahan.

The midfielder – alongside City team-mate Robbie Brady – helped the Republic of Ireland to crucial Euro 2016 qualifying wins over the Faroe Islands and Georgia during the international break.

Hoolahan and Brady started both matches and seemed to carry the momentum of those victories into their return to club duty.

The influence of Hoolahan in particular helped Alex Neil's team to secure their first home victory of the season and the former Blackpool schemer acknowledged it was a crucial result.

'It was important,' he continued. 'Bournemouth are a fantastic team, they pass the ball very well and we got in their faces, created a lot of chances and completely deserved the three points.

'To score three goals at home, home form is going to be vital for us this year, and hopefully we can continue to do that.'

Hoolahan was also pleased with his goal, as well as the standing ovation he received when he was substituted in the 73rd minute – having been harshly booked in the first half for hand-ball when charging down a cross.

'Any goal is great to score, especially in front of the home fans here,' Hoolahan added. 'It's nice when you know you've played well.

'They're very good to you here, the fans are great and it was great to get a win here.

'Their attitude has always been good to me and my attitude has always been good to them.'