Chesterfield have confirmed the signing of striker Ched Evans on a one-year deal. He will stand trial in October for rape after pleading not guilty at a court hearing in May.
The Welsh striker spent over two years in prison before his conviction was quashed, and a retrial was ordered. He has not played professional since 2012.
The 27-year-old, who has 22 caps for the Welsh national team, last played for Sheffield United before he was released before the rape conviction.
Evans has been linked to several clubs since his released, including a return to Sheffield United, Maltese side Hibernians and most notably Oldham Athletic. He is expected to sign a contract with the Spireites later today.
The St-Asaph-born forward came through the ranks at Manchester City, but didn’t make a major impact. A productive loan spell at Norwich City followed, before a £3million move to Bramall Lame in July 2009.
In 77 league starts for Sheffield United, he scored over 40 goals. His last goal came on April 12th 2012, in a 3-1 home victory over Leyton Orient.
Chesterfield are managed by ex-Sheffield United manager Danny Wilson. Ex-Blades player and coach Chris Morgan is also on the coaching staff at the Proact Stadium. Chairman Dave Allen says this was a major factor in Evans joining the club,
“We are delighted to have secured the services of an outstanding footballer, who is now keen to get back to work and score goals.
“Danny Wilson knows Ched very well, having previously managed him at Sheffield United. Chris Morgan, our first team coach, also speaks highly of him from their time together at Bramall Lane. Chesterfield Football Club have given a great deal of thought to this signing and following the court’s decision, we are in no doubt that Ched Evans should be welcomed back into his profession as a professional footballer.”
Speaking on signing for Chesterfield, Evans had this to say,
“I am very excited and privileged to be resuming my career at Chesterfield and I hope to make a valuable contribution both on and off the pitch for the football club, the fans and the community.”
