Ched Evans to Oldham: Sponsor severs ties with League One club ahead of 'imminent signing'

Verlin Rainwater Solutions say it will no longer be associated with the club

(Splash News)

One of Oldham's sponsors has severed ties with the club ahead due to the "imminent signing" of convicted rapist Ched Evans.

Verlin Rainwater Solutions says it will no longer be associated with the club, who are expected to make a statement about the 26-year-old striker on Thursday.

Discussions between the League One club and the Professional Footballers' Association have continued over a possible signing of Evans, despite vociferous opposition.

There have also been reports that Evans and the club have agreed personal terms ahead of any signing.

Craig Verling, a director of Verlin Rainwater Solutions which sponsors a stand at Boundary Park, said in a statement: "After receiving the news regarding the imminent signing of Ched Evans it is with great regret that Verlin Rainwater Solutions will no longer be associated with Oldham Athletic.

"We would like to take this opportunity to make clear that we feel that Mr Evans should be able to lead a life without further punishment after serving his sentence, although our feelings remain the same that this should not be within the public domain where his previous behaviour may influence the next generation.

"We sincerely wish the club a very successful future and have no regrets about being associated with Oldham Athletic over the past few seasons, but feel our continued support would be sending out the wrong message."

Oldham said there would be no statement today but hope to make a statement tomorrow.