Wait goes on over Evans
Reporter: MATTHEW CHAMBERS
Date published: 07 January 2015
UPDATED BREAKING NEWS
ATHLETIC’S controversial chase for Ched Evans could finally be set for its conclusion, with reports that the striker has agreed personal terms on a two-and-a-half year contract.
A protracted deal to bring in the convicted rapist was heading towards completion today as talks continued between club officials, Evans’ representatives, the Professional Footballers’ Association and Athletic’s sponsors and stakeholders.
An announcement officially unveiling the former Sheffield United forward in front of the media could be made as early as tomorrow.
The response to Athletic’s pursuit of Evans has been mixed.
While Verlin and Mecca Bingo both came out against, Web Developments, CM Solicitors and Optima Cars all said they were happy to leave the issue to the club.
Athletic, mindful of the uproar the potential signing has caused, have been keen to bolster support for the swoop from the PFA and club partners.
The Council were seen as a keen ally to keep onside, particularly given their financial backing for the new North Stand, while the £1million Sports Direct sponsorship deal represented the sort of contract the club can’t afford to lose.
An online petition addressed to Athletic chairman Simon Corney against a deal had been signed by 62,000 people this morning — 15 times the club’s average attendance this season. A petition in favour of signing Evans has attracted 2,800 signatures.
Athletic’s communications with the waiting media assembled outside SportsDirect.com Park were criticised in some quarters, but the club has been hamstrung by the fact that Corney and fellow director Anthony Gee are currently in the United States on business.
