Kyle Walker issues apology for inhaling 'hippy crack'

Kyle Walker playing for England.

Tottenham defender Kyle Walker has apologized to his club and country after he was pictured inhaling nitrous oxide at a nightclub in his hometown of Sheffield.

The 23-year-old is currently in Kiev with the England team as they prepare to take on Ukraine in their crucial World Cup qualifier on Tuesday. Walker knew that his actions had been made public after he saw a picture of himself using the drug in a Sunday newspaper.

Walker is the latest celebrity to experiment with the substance. Prince Harry had been pictured inhaling the drug at a party three years ago.

Walker said that he had let England down. In a statement issued to Sportsmail he said:

‘I have now been made aware of the health risks associated with the practice and accept that my actions were of poor judgement,’ said Walker in a statement published by Tottenham.

‘I hope this will in no way influence or encourage others into putting their own health at risk.

Walker later said on Twitter: ‘Apologies for not commenting sooner on a story about me today. I’ve been training and am focused on Tuesday’s game for England.‘

The FA, meanwhile,refused to comment on the player’s actions and stated that his behaviour would not affect his place in the England team.

A statement issued by the FA read: ‘Players representing England are ambassadors for their country and role models for younger players.

‘The highest standards of conduct and behaviour are therefore expected at all times, including when players are not on international duty.’

Nitrous oxide, which is also known as ‘hippy crack’ or laughing gas, is used by dentists to numb pain. The drug is not considered illegal and is freely sold at nightclubs in England.