Fifa has opened a disciplinary case against West Ham and Diafra Sakho for a "potential violation" of regulations over the striker playing for his club during Senegal's African Nations Cup campaign.

Sakho came off the bench to score the only goal in West Ham's FA Cup fourth-round victory over Bristol City on January 25th, despite having been ruled out of international duty with a back injury.

The Barclays Premier League club maintain correct procedures were followed, but in the wake of the dispute subsequently decided to leave Sakho out of the squad for Saturday's match at Liverpool, which they lost 2-0.

A Fifa statement on Monday morning said: “We can confirm, that disciplinary proceedings were initiated against the player Diafra Sakho and the club West Ham United for a potential violation of the Fifa Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players.

“At this stage we can’t make any further comments.”

Should the case be proven then Sakho could face a domestic suspension and West Ham a fine from the world’s governing body.

Senegal, knocked out of the Nations Cup on Tuesday, remain angry that their officials were unable to examine Sakho themselves because West Ham said he was not fit enough to fly.

West Ham, however, have denied any wrongdoing with co-owner David Sullivan saying the club acted solely on the advice of leading medical professionals.

He said: “Any FIFA hearing will vindicate us, we have done nothing untoward.”

Sam Allardyce, talking before the game at Liverpool, said; “It is not conducive for us to be putting him on the field until it is resolved, sadly.

“We have covered all the rules and regulations but at this moment it is sensible to do the right thing and not get involved any more.

“If you speak to the lad you would know how angry and disappointed he is at being denied the opportunity to play football when it is not our fault.”

Sakho has scored 10 goals in 16 appearances in all competitions since joining the Hammers from Metz before the start of the season.