Gareth Barry has been charged by the FA over an alleged attempt to buy a half stake in Swindon Town.

The former Manchester City and Aston Villa hero could face a ban from working in football if the case goes against him, says The Sun.

Barry, 40, faced no action seven months ago when the League Two outfit, ex-chairman Lee Power and Barry's agent Michael Standing were rapped by the FA.

But behind the scenes football's ruling body have investigated claims made in court by Power that Barry stumped up £800,000 to buy into Swindon in 2013.

Barry has denied investing in Swindon or agreeing to a deal with Power.

At the time he was playing for Everton and such an investment would have breached FA club ownership rules.

The FA said in a statement: “It is alleged that Gareth Barry also breached Intermediary Regulations in relation to the ownership and/or funding of Swindon Town FC.

“Swindon Town FC, Lee Power, First Touch Pro Management, Michael Standing and Gareth Barry all have until Wednesday 1 December 2021 to respond."