Man City star Khiara Keating and mum in court accused of nitrous oxide possession

Manchester City goalkeeper Khiara Keating and her mum have appeared in court charged with possessing a quantity of nitrous oxide. The 20-year-old England Lioness appeared in the dock at Manchester Magistrates' Court today (Tuesday, July 23).

According to court documents, she is charged with one count of possessing nitrous oxide for wrongful inhalation. Nitrous oxide, a class C drug, is also known as 'hippy crack' or laughing gas.

Court documents state the footballer is accused of possessing '11 large cannisters of smart whip nitrous oxide' on June 18 this year. Ms Keating, of Ashton Old Road, Manchester, indicated a not guilty plea.

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Her mum Nicola, also of Ashton Old Road Manchester, also appeared charged with possession of a class C controlled drug. The 48-year-old is accused of possessing a quantity of nitrous oxide on June 18, court documents state. She also indicated a not guilty plea.

The hearing was adjourned until September 10 to be heard before a district judge for a case management hearing and pre-trial review. Both defendants were bailed. Possession with intent to inhale nitrous oxide for a psychoactive effect is an offence punishable with an unlimited fine, community service or police caution. Repeat serious users face up to two years in prison and dealers up to 14 years.

Ms Keating has enjoyed an outstanding year for the Blues, becoming the youngest player to win the Women's Super League Golden Glove award. It came after she kept nine clean sheets in 22 league games for City, who finished second to rivals Chelsea in the title race.

The Lionesses' manager Sarina Wiegman invited her to join the