Former Hitchin Town and Codicote footballer Alfie Barker, who used Twitter to mock AFC Bournemouth star Harry Arter over the death of his baby daughter, has been banned from all football until August 1 by the FA.
Barker, who comes from Stevenage and went to The Barclay School, admitted an FA charge at a hearing yesterday, and was also fined £250.
When Arsenal came back from 3-0 down to draw 3-3 with the Cherries last month, Barker tweeted Arter twice, first saying: “At least you didn’t lose your kid.”
The 18-year-old then added: “Big hype just for a disappointment like the nine months leading up to your child’s birth.”
After his comments were widely criticised, Barker – who has ADHD and a mild form of autism – deleted the tweets and apologised the next day. Both Hitchin and Codicote cancelled his registration.
Speaking exclusively to the Comet last month, he said: “It’s the worst thing I’ve ever done in my life, but it is so out of character. I honestly don’t know why I did it.”
Barker also played for Langford FC earlier this season.
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