Oldham Athletic FC owner Simon Corney has confirmed there is an “80 per cent” chance of the club signing convicted rapist Ched Evans, who he believes “has served his time”.
Corney said the decision to give Evans, 26, a route back into football had been agreed unanimously by all six members of the Oldham board, despite vociferous opposition and sponsors severing ties with the League One club.
The Oldham chairman told the Jewish Chronicle: “We believe he has served his time. There is an 80 per cent chance of us signing him.
“It won’t be done today (yesterday). It’s not straightforward and there are some legal issues.
“There might be a cost implication, but you have to stick to your principles. We weren’t surprised by the backlash.”
Corney said three unnamed Premier League club managers had contacted him to offer their support, and that he respects the views of those who thought Evans should not be allowed back into professional football.
He added: “I completely understand people’s views and I respect them. I would never tell people they are wrong to have their own views. But we want people to keep them in check.”
Evans was released from prison last October, halfway through a five-year sentence for raping a 19-year-old woman. Discussions between Oldham and the Professional Footballers’ Association have continued over Evans’ signing, and there have been reports that he and the club have agreed personal terms ahead of an announcement today, with a two-and-a-half-year deal being suggested for the Wales striker.
Sponsors withdraw backing
Sponsors Verlin Rainwater Solutions announced yesterday it was cutting ties with Oldham immediately.
Craig Verling, a director of Verlin Rainwater Solutions – which sponsors a stand at Boundary Park – said in a statement: “After receiving the news regarding the imminent signing of Ched Evans, it is with great regret that Verlin Rainwater Solutions will no longer be associated with Oldham Athletic.
“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.”
Another Oldham sponsor, ZenOffice, warned it would sever its five-year relationship with the club if the Evans signing went ahead.
Last weekend, Steve Vaughan, whose company sponsors Hibernians, told English media that he had made Evans an offer to join the Maltese club but on Tuesday, the Premier League leaders denied reports that they were interested in the Welshman.