Hitchin Town’s former player Alfie Barker has been charged today by the FA over his Twitter trolling of Premier League footballer Harry Arter.

Barker, who was sacked by the Top Field outfit hours after he sent abusive messages to the AFC Bournemouth player following the south coast team’s 3-3 draw with Arsenal on Tuesday, January 3.

The forward, who had been playing on loan for Spartan South Midlands League Division One side Codicote Town, was also sacked by ‘The Cod’ for his tweets.

Barker talked to the Comet the same day, issuing an apology after posting the messages, which were subsequently deleted.

An FA statement read: “It is alleged the player posted comments which were abusive and/or insulting and/or improper and/or brought the game into disrepute contrary to Rule E3 (1).”

Barker has until January 25 to respond to the charge.