Express. Home of the Daily and Sunday Express.
Hartlepool will NOT sign convicted rapist Ched Evans
HARTLEPOOL have rejected the possibility of signing convicted rapist Ched Evans.
Hartlepool will not sign convicted rapist Ched Evans
It comes after manager Ronnie Moore admitted yesterday that signing Evans was a possibility.
"If it could happen, I would want it to happen," he said. "He is a proven scorer; he's served his time and the boy wants to play football.
"If there is a chance he might come here, I don't see any reason why he shouldn't."
However, the club have now released a statement rejecting the claims that the Welsh striker would join the club.
Ched Evans Statement
Hartlepool United do not intend signing Ched Evans
"Hartlepool United do not intend signing Ched Evans and, for the avoidance of doubt, will not be doing so, irrespective of his obvious ability as a football player.
"The Club can fully understand the concerns of supporters and the general public and regrets any misconception portrayed."
Chairman Peter Harris said: "We are upset at the manner in which this story has escalated and wish to make it clear that the player will not be joining the Club.
“All we are concentrating on is league survival and do not want anything to upset that goal.
“The Club regrets any upset that May have been caused but we feel we must deal with this matter quickly and put the story to bed once and for all."
Evans had previously been given permission to train with his former club Sheffield United, but the Blades have since withdrawn their offer after immense public backlash.
Would you like to receive news notifications from Daily Express?