Arsenal have responded to footage showing some of their players apparently inhaling nitrous oxide in a London nightclub by saying those involved will be spoken to and reminded of their responsibilities.

A number of players, including Mesut Özil, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Alexandre Lacazette and Mattéo Guendouzi, appear to inhale nitrous oxide – also referred to as laughing gas or hippy crack – in footage published by the Sun.

The incident is reported to have taken place in August, before the start of the season. A club spokesperson said: “The players will be spoken to about this and reminded of their responsibilities as representatives of the club.”

Nitrous oxide, which is used legitimately in medicine, dentistry and catering, is legal, although it is illegal to supply or import it for personal use.

It can make users feel euphoric and relaxed, with some reporting hallucinations, and can lead to loss of blood pressure, fainting and even heart attack.

Arsenal confirmed on Friday that Rob Holding ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee at Manchester United this week. “Rob will undergo surgery to repair this in the coming days,” the club said. “The rehabilitation process is expected to take between six to nine months.”