83 days after he was released from prison, Ched Evans releases statement apologising to his victim – but retains his innocence.
Convicted rapist Ched Evans has released a statement apologising for the effects of his actions via the Professional Footballers Association (PFA).
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The former Sheffield United player has also condemned those who have threatened the victim of his rime and her family. He has insisted that they are not welcome as his fans. This is the first time that the 26-year-old has apologised for his actions, and is also the first time that he has said anything against those who have been persecuting his opponents.
The statement follows in full below:
“I am grateful for the support of the PFA in helping me try to return to football and continue my career.
“Upon legal advice, I was told not to discuss the events in question. This silence has been misinterpreted as arrogance and I would like to state that this could not be further from the truth.
“I do remain limited at present by what I can say due to the ongoing referral to the Criminal Cases Review Commission and 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.
“Finally, it has been claimed that those using social media in an abusive and vindictive way towards this woman are supporters of mine. 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.”
The ex-Manchester City trainee was expected to sign for Oldham Athletic today, but they pulled out of the deal after fierce resistance. Several sponsors of the club had pulled out before they squashed the stories linking him to the transfer. The board and club hierarchy had also received death threats about the situation.