A Premier League footballer was attended to by emergency services after he was spotted surrounded by canisters of 'laughing gas', it has been reported.
The Daily Mail claim that the unnamed player, who they say had been diagnosed with an addiction to laughing gas (formally known as nitrous oxide), was treated at his flat last month.
It is claimed that a close friend of the player in question called the emergency services, before paramedics then attended the scene and carried out checks.
The report claims that the player's club are 'aware' of the incident and are continuing to offer him help and support.
It is said that the player himself has made 'repeated attempts to quit'. The Mail also add that police also attended but are not thought to have launched criminal proceedings.
Nitrous oxide is colourless and can be used as a recreational drug, with potential side effects from its use including headaches, dizziness, vitamin B12 deficiency and memory loss, while more serious side effects include possible brain damage.
Possession of nitrous oxide was made illegal in the UK in November, with the Government classifying it as a Class C drug controlled under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971.
Punishments for violating the act can include an unlimited fine, a community punishment or caution. Repeated offenders can also receive a prison sentence.
After the ban was announced, the then Crime and Policing Minister Chris Philp said: "Today we are sending a clear signal to people, especially young people, that not only is abuse of nitrous oxide dangerous to their health, but it is also illegal and those caught possessing it will face consequences."
He added: "This law gives the police the powers they need to take a zero-tolerance approach to this crime."
Nitrous oxide is legally used as a painkiller in medicine and dentistry, including to help reduce pain during childbirth.
Featured Image Credit: GettyTopics: Football, Premier League
Ryan Smart