LEE Hughes has denied groping a woman at a Croydon hotel in December.

The Notts County striker appeared at Croydon Magistrates' Court this morning (Wednesday) and pleaded not guilty to one charge of sexual assault.

Hughes, 35, chose for his trial to be held before a jury at Croydon Crown Court, and was released on unconditional bail until his next appearance on March 31.

Hughes was arrested on December 3 after claims he groped a woman at the Aerodrome Hotel on Purley Way in Croydon.

He had been staying at the hotel with his Notts County teammates the night before their FA Cup match with Sutton United.

The former West Brom player spoke at court this morning only to enter a plea and to confirm his name and address.

In a statement last week, his League One club confirmed the charge but said it would be making no further comment.