Lee Hughes claimed the shame of causing death by dangerous driving will stay with him for the rest of his life after being unveiled today as an Oldham player.

The former Coventry and West Brom striker, 31, apologised publicly for the first time after serving three years of a six-year sentence.

Hughes killed father-of-two Douglas Graham in a car accident near Coventry in November 2003 while driving home from a post-match drink and was jailed the following August.

He also caused serious injuries to another man, Albert Frisby, and fled the scene of the accident on foot to avoid a breath test.

But Hughes said: "I wish to make some comment about the circumstances that resulted in my imprisonment three years ago.

"I'm acutely aware of my actions, which resulted in the death of one person and serious injury to others.  I only wish I could turn back the clock.

"Although I have served the sentence laid down by law, I know that nothing I can do or say will change what has happened.

"In going some way to facing my responsibilities I have met with a relative of the man who died, and what was said will always remain a private and personal matter.

"For different reasons, I think we were both glad that the meeting occurred.

"This is the first time I've been able to make a public apology for my actions and I now hope for an opportunity to rebuild my life.

"After this press conference today, I do not intend to discuss or make comment about the events which led to my imprisonment.

"I have made this decision, not out of protection for myself, but with regard to the privacy and respect for the families involved.

"I made dreadful mistakes and decisions that will live with me for the rest of my life.  It also greatly affected my immediate family, including my wife and children and I will never forgive myself for this."

Hughes revealed he had chosen Oldham ahead of several other clubs to resurrect his career because of the support they had shown both him and his family.

He said he intended to move his family to live in the Oldham area.

Hughes added: "Having spoken to club officials and the management team, I've never been in any doubt that this was the club I wanted to play for.

"The club has also been extremely understanding with my family and we intend to live in the area as soon as possible.

"I'm eager to get going and know that difficulties will lie ahead.

"That will only spur me on to do well and, given my experience in the higher leagues, I'm hoping to contribute significantly in helping Oldham to get promoted."