Former Hitchin Town player Alfie Barker has been charged by the FA over comments he made on social media earlier this month, reports Sky Sports.

Barker has been charged with misconduct after sending messages to Bournemouth midfielder Harry Arter on Twitter relating to his stillborn daughter.

Barker, who had been playing on loan for Spartan South Midlands League Division One side Codicote Town, was sacked by Hitchin soon after the FA investigation was opened.

Barker issued an apology a day 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.