A law firm that sponsors the football club considering signing convicted rapist Ched Evans has given its backing to the club ‘whatever the outcome’.

In a statement published on its website today, north-west firm Carter Moore Solicitors said it will continue to back Oldham Athletic in future.

The club has said it is in conversations with representative bodies such as the Professional Footballers Association over the possible signing of Evans (pictured).

The Wales international striker was released from prison last October after serving half of a five-year sentence for raping a 19-year-old woman in 2011.

His former club Sheffield United has since opted not to re-sign him and he continues to search for a club.

Two Oldham sponsors have withdrawn their support for the club since the possibility of him signing came about, but Carter Moore Solicitors says it will not take similar action. 

‘As secondary shirt sponsors, we are obviously aware of ongoing speculation concerning the possible engagement of Ched Evans by Oldham Athletic,’ said the firm.

‘Whilst there are many difficult considerations with regards to the matter, we believe that this is solely a matter for the club and we are confident that they will make the right decision in all of the circumstances. Whatever the outcome we are and will remain proud sponsors of the club going forward.’

Oldham yesterday requested that its stakeholders’ and partners’ ‘position and privacy be respected’ until the matter has been concluded.

More than 42,000 people have signed a petition urging Oldham to refuse to sign Evans.

Carter Moore Solicitors, based in Manchester and London, has sponsored the back of the Oldham shirt for two seasons in a partnership that began in 2013.