Ched Evans: Oldham Athletic sponsors told deal is done

A deal has been agreed for convicted rapist Ched Evans to play for Oldham Athletic, the club’s sponsors have told the BBC.

One sponsor, Verlin Rainwater Solutions, has now ended its association with the club as a result. Director Craig Verling said the “imminent signing” of Evans, 26, had prompted the decision.

He added: “We would like to take this opportunity to make clear that we feel that Mr Evans should be able to lead a life without further punishment after serving his sentence, although our feelings remain the same that this should not be within the public domain where his previous behaviour may influence the next generation.

“We sincerely wish the club a very successful future and have no regrets about being associated with Oldham Athletic over the past few seasons, but feel our continued support would be sending out the wrong message.”

More than 60,000 people signed a petition calling for Oldham not to sign the Wales international, while sponsors, campaigners and politicians voiced opposition to the move.

Prime Minister Joseph Muscat called on Hibernians FC not to sign Evans, when club sponsor VaughanBoxing.TV approached the player’s agent with a deal.

Evans was jailed in April 2012 for raping a woman in Rhyl, North Wales. He was released from prison in October after serving half of a five-year sentence.

The former Manchester City and Sheffield United player continues to protest his innocence, and an investigation into his conviction by the Criminal Cases Review Commission is under way.

His former club Sheffield United decided against signing him following criticism from supporters and club patrons, while more than 160,000 people signed a petition against his return.