Stoke City footballer Saido Berahino has been arrested on suspicion of drink-driving.
The 25-year-old striker was detained in London's West End.
It came after reports of a "disturbance" in Great Russell Street at about 3am on Monday.
Scotland Yard said Berahino told officers he had been the victim of a robbery.
"When officers arrived on scene a car was seen to drive away at speed," the force said in a statement.
"The car was stopped by police in Bedford Square and a 25-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of drink-driving.
"He alleged that a group of males surrounded his car in Great Russell Street and attacked him, stealing his watch."
Detectives are yet to make any arrests over that allegation but are continuing to investigate.
A witness told the Sun that he had seen Berahino eating in VQ restaurant with friends.
He said: "He was scuffling with some boys, I think they had just got out a car."
Stoke City did not comment on Berahino's arrest but it is understood he will be dealt with internally under the Championship club's disciplinary policy.
Reporting by Press Association.
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