Ched Evans: I have learned a "valuable" lesson
Ched Evans has released a video statement in which expresses his desire to return to football after serving half of a five-year sentence for rape.
Evans to make 'personal and profound statement' next week
Footballer Ched Evans will make a "very personal and profound statement" next week following his release from jail after serving half of a five-year sentence for raping a 19-year-old woman in a hotel.
The 25-year-old Welsh international Evans left Wymott Prison, near Leyland, Lancashire, in a silver Mercedes 4x4 just before 5am today.
In a statement on his website, his family said:
His website, which is run by his family and girlfriend Natasha Massey, confirmed his release and said they are determined to overturn his conviction.
Evans was jailed in April 2012 for raping the woman in a hotel room in Rhyl, North Wales.
His release will pile more pressure on his former club, Sheffield United, to say whether he will be allowed to play for them again.
Over half of people who answered a poll by ITV News said he should not be allowed to return to the professional game.
Many Blades fans have called for him to be rehabilitated, but almost 50,000 people have signed an online petition urging the Bramall Lane club not to welcome him back.
The striker denied raping the woman but was found guilty by a jury at Caernarfon Crown Court.
Evans scored 48 goals in 113 games for the Blades before his imprisonment, including 35 in 42 games during the 2011/12 campaign which was cut short for him due to his trial and conviction.
He has been capped 13 times for Wales.
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Poll: 52% against Ched Evans' return to football
Just over half of people polled by ITV News say convicted rapist Ched Evans should not be allowed to resume his football career
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Nigel Clough says the board will decide on Ched Evans
Sheffield United manager Nigel Clough insists the decision whether to bring jailed striker Ched Evans back to the club is "above football".