Oldham Athletic remain locked in discussions regarding the potential signing of the convicted rapist Ched Evans and are working towards a statement from the club, the player’s representatives and the Professional Footballers’ Association.
Although the League One side’s decision is in the balance, hope is growing in the Evans camp that despite the differing views held by the board and other stakeholders the striker will be offered a contract to resume his playing career after serving half of a five-year sentence for the offence, which occurred in 2011.
CM Solicitors, a shirt sponsor of the club, has stated it would back any decision made by Oldham. In a statement on Tuesday, the company said: “As secondary shirt sponsors, we are obviously aware of on-going speculation concerning the possible engagement of Ched Evans by Oldham Athletic.
“Whilst there are many difficult considerations with regards to the matter, we believe that this is solely a matter for the club and we are confident that they will make the right decision in all of the circumstances.
“Whatever the outcome we are and will remain proud sponsors of the club going forward.”
David Cameron entered the debate when a No10 spokesman said “the prime minister does think that footballers are role models and he is sure that any potential would-be clubs and employers will weigh their decisions very carefully”.
