West Bromwich Albion striker Lee Hughes has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving following a car crash that killed a 56-year-old man, police say.

Police sources said the 27-year-old first division player was suspected of having fled the scene of the crash near Coventry city centre in the early hours of Sunday.

"I can confirm that Lee Hughes has been arrested," a West Midlands Police spokesman said on Monday.

A silver Mercedes coupe and a Renault Megane collided just after midnight, police said.

A 56-year-old father of four from Coventry, who was a rear seat passenger in the Megane, died from his injuries. His wife, sitting next to him, was in hospital with a broken leg, while the driver escaped serious injury.

West Bromwich Albion said it was aware Hughes was talking to police, but would make no further comment on the incident.

"Lee will not be considered for selection for Tuesday evening's game against Cardiff City since he missed training on both Sunday and Monday," it added on its Web site www.wba.co.uk.

West Brom were relegated from the premier league last season and are currently top of division one.