Mario Balotelli is facing the prospect of a four-match ban after being charged with violent conduct by the Football Association.
A statement from the FA read: "The FA has today charged Manchester City forward Mario Balotelli with violent conduct following an incident in his side's home game against Tottenham Hotspur.
"Balotelli was involved in an incident with Tottenham's Scott Parker during Manchester City's 3-2 victory at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday 22 January 2012.
"Balotelli has until 6pm on Wednesday 25 January 2012 to respond to the charge."
The Manchester City striker appeared to catch Scott Parker's head with his foot during Sunday's 3-2 Barclays Premier League win over Tottenham.
If he accepts the charge, it means Balotelli will miss the Carling Cup semi-final second leg against Liverpool.
However the Italian could risk getting the suspension extended with referee Howard Webb telling the FA that if he had seen the Italian's apparent stamp, he would have sent him off.
Joleon Lescott was told that he will face no further action for catching Younes Kaboul in the face with his forearm at the Etihad Stadium.
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