Ambulance called to house of Premier League star who is 'addicted to laughing gas'

A Premier League footballer, reportedly addicted to laughing gas, was treated by emergency services at his home after a concerned friend alerted them.

Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, was outlawed in the UK in 2023. Repeat offenders can face up to two years in prison, while dealers can be sentenced to up to 14 years.

The Daily Mail reports that the friend called for help after visiting the player's flat and finding him surrounded by nitrous oxide canisters. It is claimed that paramedics then attended the scene and issued a stern warning to the player after conducting their checks.

The footballer has allegedly made several attempts to overcome his addiction, even attending rehab earlier this season. However, it is believed he has relapsed.

The incident, which occurred last month, is known to the player's club who have been providing support as he battles his addiction. Although police were reportedly present at the scene, the player is not facing any criminal charges.

In November, Policing Minister Chris Philp announced nitrous oxide would be classified as a Class C drug in Britain. "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 said.

The decision is aimed at combatting the widespread public misuse of the substance, often colloquially referred to as 'laughing gas': "For too long the use of this drug in public spaces has contributed to anti-social behaviour which is a blight on communities. We will not accept it. This law gives the police the powers they need to take a zero-tolerance approach to this crime."

Echoing this sentiment, John Hayward-Cripps, CEO of Neighbourhood Watch, remarked on the increasing prevalence of nitrous oxide-linked anti-social behaviour: "As consumption of nitrous oxide has increased over the years, there has been a connected increase in reports of anti-social behaviour, including the littering of nitrous oxide canisters."

Hayward-Cripps praised the government's move, saying it would contribute positively to community safety across the country: "For communities across the country, this change in the law will be a positive move towards tackling anti-social behaviour and making local communities a better and safer place to live. We encourage members of the public to report any illegal consumption of nitrous oxide or other drugs to their local police force."