Ched Evans has issued a public apology to his unnamed rape victim, while maintaining his own innocence in the case.
The admission comes after Oldham Athletic called off their move to sign the 26-year-old following reported threats to employees – being released through the Professional Football Association’s (PFA) website.
In his first public statement since the move broke down, the former Wales striker said that he did not want his silence on the matter to be misinterpreted as arrogance, after legal advice dictated him to not discuss events.
“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,” Evans said.
“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 whilst I continue to maintain my innocence.”
Evans also commented that people abusive towards women on social media are not his supporters.
“It has been claimed that those using social media in an abusive and vindictive way towards this woman are supporters of mine,” he said.
“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.”
“I am grateful for the support of the PFA in helping me try to return to football and continue my career.
The PFA also stressed that they were not encouraging Oldham’s move for sign Evans, due to the fact they were offering limited support.
“It is important to make clear that, contrary to what has been reported, we were not driving any deal,” they said.
“We fully recognise that this is a delicate and emotive case and entirely respect that there are opposing views.
“The PFA’s position remains the same, as we have expressed previously, that any club which decides to sign him would receive our support.
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