Carlos Tevez losing FA Cup final fitness battle

Tevez must play on Tuesday is he is to feature in the FA Cup final says Mancini (GETTY IMAGES)

Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini has admitted it will be impossible for Carlos Tevez to play in the FA Cup final if he cannot play some part in Tuesday's Premier League encounter with Tottenham.

Tevez has been out with a hamstring injury for almost four weeks and is virtually certain to miss Saturday's trip to Everton.

The South American is desperate to play against Stoke at Wembley but has so far managed to do only light training.

And the clock is now ticking, with Tevez needing to be involved against Spurs to stand any chance of featuring in City's first major final for 30 years.

"It is very difficult for him to play against Everton and if he doesn't play against Tottenham, it will be impossible for Carlos to play in the final," said Mancini.

Micah Richards could be on the bench at Goodison Park as he continues to make progress after a hamstring injury.

"Micah is very close," said Mancini.

The City chief was also unconcerned about Bayern Munich's interest in Germany defender Jerome Boateng.

Mancini is the first to admit Boateng's first season at Eastlands has been difficult.

However, the Italian is adamant the former Hamburg star's future remains with City.

"I am happy Bayern have said this because it proves we signed a big player," said Mancini.

"Jerome has had many problems this year, including three or four injuries.

"But he will be staying here. He is a big part of our future.

"If he doesn't have any problems next year, Jerome can be one of the best defenders in Europe."