FIFA are within their rights to step into the Carlos Tevez saga if Manchester City refuse to play the striker regularly.

The Argentina international, who has been fined four weeks' wages after being found guilty of misconduct, could face a spell in the reserves after disgracing the North West side.

Despite the Blues' claims that they will not sell the frontman for a cut price, FIFA rules state that Tevez could terminate his contract if he is not played regularly.

"Should the club decide to leave the player in the reserves, the player may eventually – and for clarity this means many months – be able to terminate the contract under the doctrine of sporting just cause," The Express quotes a leading sports lawyer as saying.

"Article 15 of FIFA Regulations for the Status and Transfer of Players provides that 'an established professional who has, in a season, appeared in less than 10& of official matches in which the club has been involved may terminate early on the grounds of sporting just cause'.

"The club will therefore need to take considerable care."

Meanwhile reports have emerged claiming that Tevez and Man City are considering legal action against each other.