Sterling faces two years for dangerous driving and laughing gas

The 31-year-old former striker of Manchester City and Chelsea, Raheem Sterling, appeared at Basingstoke Court, where he admitted dangerous driving and possession of six nitrous oxide cartridges, an offence that carries a maximum sentence of two years in prison.

On May 28, Sterling lost control of his Lamborghini Urus near the Minley junction in Hampshire, crashing into the safety barriers of the M3 motorway. The incident did not involve other vehicles and caused no injuries.

Police found six nitrous oxide cartridges on board the car, also known as laughing gas. Sterling refused to undergo the tests requested by the officers, committing an additional offence.

In court, the striker pleaded guilty to dangerous driving on the M25, M3, A327 and Minley Road. British law provides for a maximum sentence of two years' imprisonment for this offence, in addition to possible ancillary penalties.

Impact on career

Currently, Sterling is without a club, having left Feyenoord last August. His lack of a club coincides with the legal proceedings, further complicating a return to professional football.

During the brief Dutch spell, Sterling made eight appearances, providing one assist. The contract with the Dutch club had been signed until the end of the season, signed in February.

Before moving to the Netherlands, the midfielder had finished his stint at Chelsea, where the club terminated his contract in January after three and a half years. In his career he has also worn the shirts of Liverpool, Manchester City and completed a loan spell at Arsenal.

Legal proceedings

Basingstoke Court scheduled his appearance for today, the date on which he entered his plea of guilt. By accepting the plea, the judge avoided a lengthy trial.