Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni hospitalised after being hit by a car while cycling in Mallorca

Scaloni has been in charge of Argentina since Jorge Sampaoli was sacked in the wake of a disastrous World Cup campaign

Lionel Scaloni is in hospital in Mallorca (Getty)

Argentina national team coach Lionel Scaloni was hospitalised after being hit by a car while cycling on Tuesday morning.

The former West Ham defender was cycling on the Balearic island when he was knocked off his bike and had to be treated in the university hospital near Palma, the Mallorcan capital.

Scaloni suffered a number of injuries to his face and body, principally cuts and bruises, and was being observed by staff before being released home, the Argentina football association said.

Local media in Argentina reported that his state was not serious and that the incident occurred in the seaside town of Puerto Portals.

The 40-year-old coach has lived in Mallorca for much of the year since falling in love with the island during a loan spell towards the end of his career.

Lionel Messi returned to the Argentina international side last month (AFP/Getty)

Being stationed in Europe allows Scaloni to keep a close eye on the majority of his playing squad, who ply their trade in the continent's top leagues.

Scaloni has been Argentina coach since he was installed as caretaker in the wake of Jorge Sampaoli's sacking. The former right-back had been an assistant to Sampaoli during the World Cup and took temporary charge as the Argentine FA searched for a longer-term replacement.

With none of the high-profile options - including Diego Simeone, Mauricio Pochettino and Gerardo Martino - willing to take on the post, Scaloni was confirmed as full-time head coach on November 29. He will take charge of the team at this summer's Copa America in Brazil with an option to extend that deal and preside over 2020's Copa America campaign.