Oldham on verge of signing Ched Evans

Oldham are on the verge of signing convicted rapist Ched Evans after club owner Simon Corney said he believed the player "has served his time".

Corney confirmed there was an “80%” chance of the club signing Evans. Corney said the decision to give Evans, 26, a route back into football had been agreed unanimously by 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% chance of us signing him. It won’t be done today (Wednesday). 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.”

Club director Barry Owen said last night: “There are ongoing negotiations with regard to signing Ched Evans. Unfortunately, quite a lot of due diligence still needs to be completed. We are still in talks with the PFA and other agencies.

“At the moment I would just ask you to bear with us. There are things to be done, genuinely, and I don’t anticipate that it is going to be done over the next few days. If it is and it is possible to do anything for you, we will make contact with you and tell you what the circumstances are. We are a professional club and we do things in the right way with regard to the media.”

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.

“I hope people don’t get too carried way and it doesn’t get too hot.”

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 international striker.