Ched Evans returns to football with Chesterfield

Chesterfield have signed striker Ched Evans on an initial one-year-contract.

Evans last played professionally in 2012 before being sentenced to five years in prison for rape. The 27-year-old has always denied the charges and his conviction was quashed by the Court of Appeal in April.

A re-trial has been scheduled for October.

Evans began his career with Manchester City before having spells with Norwich and Sheffield United. Arguably his best season came in 2011/12 where he scored 35 times in 42 appearances for the Blades.

Since being released from prison in October last year Evans had unsuccessfully tried to find a new club, before being given an opportunity by the Spireites today.

Chesterfield Chairman Dave Allen told the club’s official website, “We are delighted to have secured the services of an outstanding footballer, who is now keen to get back to work and score goals

“[ 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.”