Ched Evans, who was jailed in 2012 for raping a 19-year-old woman, has been signed to League One team Chesterfield with a one-year deal.
The former Wales striker has always denied the charges against him, and had his conviction revoked by the Court of Appeal in April after a 10 month investigation by the Criminal Cases Review Commission. Despite the fact he faces retrial, the signing still happened.
Chesterfield chairman Dave Allen said;
“We are delighted to have secured the services of an outstanding footballer, who is now keen to get back to work and score goals. [Manager] 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.”
Evans added: “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.”
A current poll on Twitter shows fans divided on their opinions of the move.