Oldham deal with Ched Evans collapses after ‘death threats’

The club claimed it had been put under “unbearable pressure” over the potential signing, with staff and supporters reportedly receiving death threats.

Evans was jailed in 2012 after being convicted of raping a 19-year-old woman in a hotel near his home town of Rhyl. He was released in October and still protests his innocence.

Read: How online campaigners are battling over Ched Evans

In a statement, the club said: “Proceeding could have placed significant financial pressure on the Club and continued to be a divisive influence. As a consequence the deal could not go ahead.

The whole issue has divided opinion and the Club has been put under unbearable pressure as a result. Oldham Athletics

“As a Club we condemn all crime including rape and irrespective of any appeal procedure it was always the case that we were prepared to withstand the barrage of abuse that is evident within the country and on social media.

“We deplore and condemn the vile and abusive threats, some including death threats, which have been made to our fans, sponsors and staff whilst this process has been in the public domain.”

The announcement comes as Evans made his apology in a statement issued through the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA).

‘Wholeheartedly apologise’

He said: “Whilst I continue to maintain my innocence, I wish to make it clear that I wholeheartedly apologise for the effects that night in Rhyl has had on many people, not least the woman concerned.”

I wish to make it clear that these people are not my supporters and I condemn their actions entirely and will continue to do so. Ched Evans

Evans also condemned those “using social media in an abusive and vindictive way towards this woman”.

The PFA has distanced itself from claims that it was “driving any deal”. In a statement, the association said: “As we understand it, the club and player were in discussions and contact was then made with the PFA as matters progressed given the particular circumstances of this situation and we were simply being asked to publicly reiterate our support for the club in signing him.

“Despite being ready to offer this from the outset, we were asked to delay whilst discussions between the club and player continued, and we were disappointed to see over the course of this week, comments being made which we feel mischaracterise our limited role in this matter.”

The PFA added that it would back any club which decides to sign him.

‘Unnecessary threats’

The Oldham Athletic Supporters’ Trust claimed it had been subject to “extreme and unnecessary attacks and threats” during the deal process. In a statement, the trust said: “This is an emotive issue and as such we would ask that all members and fans respect the views of their fellow supporters in the general debate. You certainly have a right to free thought and free speech, but we would ask that you please try to avoid abusive comments and conduct.

“We would especially ask all fans and others to respect the staff of the club who have unfortunately been subjected to extreme and unnecessary attacks and threats whilst doing no more than their jobs.”