The playing future of Mitch Nichols has been left in tatters after the former Australian international and Western Sydney Wanderers' midfielder was charged with possessing a prohibited drug. 

The 28-year-old was arrested on Saturday night at Casablanca nightclub in Double Bay after police claim they found three plastic bags containing cocaine in his possession. 

Nichols parted ways with Western Sydney Wanderers last week in pursuit of a move to Europe but must first face court in three weeks' time, as well as the Football Federation Australia integrity department. 

NSW Police said they found "three small clear resealable plastic bags" containing 1.1 grams of a white powder, believed to be cocaine, on a 28-year-old man during a random police drug dog search at 12:30am in Double Bay.

The incident was caught on camera by news crew appearing to be following a police drug dog operation.

Nichols was given a field court attendance notice and is due to front Downing Centre Local Court on Friday, June 9.

If convicted, it could land a significant blow to his chances of playing overseas. Nichols' representatives are in Europe and are understood to be negotiating a transfer to one of several clubs in the continent once the European transfer market opens. 

Nichols is a free agent having been released from Western Sydney Wanderers though the club says they will continue to offer support to the player. 

"The club is currently working with Football Federation Australia regarding the matter. The Western Sydney Wanderers remain totally committed to it's anti-drugs stance and will continue to reinforce the Club's zero-tolerance message," a statement read. "While Mitch was released by the Club prior to the incident, the player's well-being remains a priority and every support will be offered to him during this time."

But as his contract does not officially end until May 31, he still falls within the jurisdiction of the FFA whom are the holders his international registration lodged with FIFA. 

An FFA spokesman confirmed Nichols will have to answer to their integrity department in response to the matter. 

"FFA takes matters such as this very seriously. The matter has been referred to the FFA integrity department, which has spoken to the club, and will be dealt with under the FFA Code of Conduct," an FFA spokesman said. 

Nichols could face Bringing the Game into disrepute, if found guilty and could have implications on his chances of finding another club in the A-League, having already played for four teams in the competition. Previously to Western Sydney Wanderers, Nichols played for Perth Glory, Melbourne Victory and Brisbane Roar, where he won two grand finals.

Originally from the Gold Coast, Nichols has played five times for the Socceroos, with his most recent cap coming in November 2014 against Japan.

His best hope of finding another contract would be overseas but his only attempt so far - a move to Japanese club CerezoOzaka in 2014 - was unsuccessful, playing just 10 times in all competitions.

With AAP