Benni McCarthy is facing heavy sanctions over his fitness at West Ham United.

The Sunday Mirror says the portly striker is preparing for the World Cup with host nation South Africa. But if he returns to Upton Park carrying excess pounds the club will take ­disciplinary action.

Co-owners David Sullivan and David Gold are fuming with the 32-year-old striker and intend to impose the maximum possible fine on him if he fails to address his weight problem.

An Upton Park insider has revealed McCarthy's body mass index (BMI) hit 24.2, a high level for an outfield player.

The West Ham source said: "McCarthy will be in deep trouble if he comes back to the club in the state he left.

"While Gianfranco Zola was here he took advantage of the situation. But David Sullivan and David Gold will intervene now the Italian has left.

"It is estimated that it has cost West Ham a total of £8.5million to sign McCarthy including the transfer fee to Blackburn and his wages."

McCarthy is on £50,000 a week including image rights.