Roberto Mancini has claimed that Carlos Tevez could still play for Manchester City this season.

The Argentinian international has not played since September following his infamous touchline row with Mancini during a Champions League encounter against Bayern Munich.

He has spent the last two months in his homeland, hoping that a move away from the Etihad Stadium would present itself.

However, a transfer failed to materialise and Mancini has insisted that the 28-year-old could play a part in the club's run-in.

"Everyone knows Tevez is a top player and it probably would have been better for us if he'd been here," said Mancini. "Carlos has the ability to change a lot of games. If he comes back next week, maybe he can help us in the last three months.

"I don't know if he is in good condition or not. I don't think so because he hasn't played for four months. But Carlos recovers strength very quickly.

"Carlos knows the situation. If he comes back, we talk. Why not? I don't have a problem."

Tevez joined City in 2009 from Manchester United.