Mark Schwarzer received an icy reception on his return to the English Premier League as his club Fulham copped a 3-0 belting in the snow at Manchester City.

Schwarzer turned out for the first time in almost two months, following a back injury, in the sub-zero temperatures that have been causing havoc across Britain and Europe.

Australia’s most-capped player had a trying day in goals as the table-topping side from the blue half of Manchester rebounded from a midweek loss at Everton.

Fulham’s troubles started when City’s Adam Johnson earned a penalty from referee Mike Dean in the 10th minute despite the elusive left-footer appearing to initiate contact with Fulham defender Chris Baird.

South American star Sergio Aguero struck the ball past Schwarzer from the penalty spot for his 19th goal of the season despite the Australian guessing the right way.

The day worsened for Schwarzer and Baird 20 minutes later when a deflection off the latter gave the 39-year-old goalkeeper no chance of keeping the ball out of his net.

Four minutes later, the Australian was back in action, this time using lightning reflexes to stop his team-mate Philippe Senderos from poking home a second own goal.

The snow became heavier in the second half and play had to be halted twice for the lines to be cleared.

With a two-goal cushion, the cashed-up ladder leaders were always going to be difficult to contain on their home patch.

Aguero set up a simple finish in the 72nd minute for strike partner Edin Dzeko to round out the scoring.

Meanwhile, Tim Cahill was replaced at halftime during Everton’s 1-1 draw at Wigan after suffering what appeared to be a knock to his ankle.