Cole has already apologies for the tweet but the FA is not appeased and has been charged with “bringing the game into disrepute”.

The contentious tweet was posted by Cole in response to claims that that his evidence has been changed in the John Terry racism trial.

The FA found Terry guilty of racially insulting Anton Ferdinand during a match between Chelsea and QPR at Loftus Road last season. Terry has been banned for four-matches and fined £220,000.

Cole has previously spoken out in defence of Terry, but the FA claims has questioned the veracity of his statement.

An incensed Cole took to Twitter on hearing the FA’s verdict, tweeting: “Hahahahaa, well done #fa I lied did I, #BUNCHOFTWATS.”

Cole deleted the tweet and has apologised, saying he was upset and posted the message in the heat of the moment. However, the FA is not happy and has charged him.

A statement on the FA’s website read: “Chelsea FC’s Ashley Cole has been charged by The FA in relation to a Twitter comment which was improper and/or brought the game into disrepute.”

Cole will face a big fine if he is found guilty but, according to reports, he will train with England this week.

On Twitter, there have been mixed reactions to the charge against Cole.

“I don’t like Ashley Cole, so wouldn’t dream of defending him, but has anyone pointed out that the FA in fact ARE a #bunchoftwats?” tweeted Matthew Webb.