Ched Evans to Oldham: Deal OFF amid 'enormous pressure' and 'threats to staff'

The convicted rapist had been close to joining the League One side

(Splash News)

Oldham's proposed signing of Ched Evans has been called off.

The League One side had looked set to confirm a deal today that would see the convicted rapist join the club.

The club's New York-based owner, Simon Corney, revealed last night that there was an 80 per cent chance the former Sheffield United player would join.

However, the club have now confirmed that Evans will not be joining them.

The father of Evans’ fiancée had appeared on the brink of securing a route back into football for the 26-year-old player, as Oldham Athletic’s owner said that he wanted – on principle – to sign Evans.

Karl Massey, the father of Evans’ fiancée Natasha, had been instrumental in helping persuade Oldham to risk the backlash they will face by signing the convicted rapist.

Massey was ready to pave the way for the striker’s return by offering to pay his wages and compensate the club for lost revenues if sponsors withdraw.

However, it proved to no avail with the club backing out.