Evans linked with Athletic

ATHLETIC are set to sign convicted rapist Ched Evans, according to national reports.

The club issued a statement denying any interest in the 26-year-old striker a month ago, following his release from prison in October.

But the former Sheffield United and Wales player, who served half of a five-year term for raping a woman in a hotel in May 2011, is reportedly now set to sign a deal at SportsDirect.com Park.

PFA chief Gordon Taylor this morning said that a deal was not yet set in stone for Evans to join an un-named League One club.

But he did state that a news conference had been planned for Monday concerning the player.

“If a club are looking to sign him they need to be 100-per-cent committed, give their reasons for signing him and get on with it, rather than inviting public debate,” Taylor told a national radio station.

"He's a footballer, he wants to return to society as a footballer, so he does need an employer to take him on."

Athletic officials were not available for comment today.

DO you think Evans would be a good signing for Latics. Comment here or email editorial@oldham-chronicle.co.uk with your views.