Manchester City and England goalkeeper Khiara Keating, 20, appeared in court alongside her mother, Nicola Keating, 48, facing charges of possession of nitrous oxide, also known as “hippy crack.” The duo pleaded not guilty to the Class C drug possession charge, which is an offense under the Misuse of Drugs Act. Keating, who had a successful season with Manchester City in the Women’s Super League, kept nine clean sheets in 22 league games and received her first Lionesses call-up last October but has not made her senior international debut.
Nitrous oxide was classified as a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act in November and its possession is considered an offense if intended for wrongful inhalation for a psychoactive effect. However, it can still be used for legitimate purposes such as in catering or pain relief during labor. The case has been adjourned until 10 September for a district judge to set a trial date.
Keating, who previously played for Manchester United, has represented England at Under-17, Under-19, and Under-23 levels. She became the first-choice goalkeeper for City last season and has made a name for herself in women’s football. The case has attracted attention due to Keating’s status as a rising star in the sport. The footballer and her mother were granted unconditional bail and are set to return to court in September for further proceedings.
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