Rapist Ched Evans would love to return to football, says girlfriend
Convicted rapist Ched Evans is eyeing a return to professional football, his girlfriend has confirmed.
Evans, who maintains his innocence, was convicted to five years imprisonment for raping a 19-year-old in 2012, but is due to be released later this month after serving half his sentence.
Speaking on This Morning, Natasha Massey said the former Sheffield United striker would 'love' to be a footballer again.
"Football is all Ched knows, he's been playing since he was little," Massey stated.
"It's out of our hands. I'm just Ched's partner, I don't get involved in the football side. What I do know is that Ched would love to return to football, continuing to do what he does best and what he loves."
Over 140,000 people have signed a petition to stop the former Manchester City youngster returning to the sport, with Massey and Evans' sister Kylie believing those that have put their names to it have got lost in the headlines.
Professional Footballers Association chief Gordon Taylor has said his union would accept Evans' return.
"We've received a lot of support from within football," Massey confirmed.
Evans has met officials from Sheffield United during his time in prison, but the club will not comment on the possibility of re-signing the striker.