A Sticky Situation for The Blades

Two and a half years ago, Sheffield United striker Ched Evans was convicted of rape. Having served half of his five year sentence, he was released from prison in the early hours of Friday morning. With his contract expired at Bramall Lane, United have a tough decision to make as to whether they should re-employ the convicted rapist.

First of all, it would be unfair to say that he should be thrown out of football, as every man has the right to earn a living. You wouldn't be able to refuse a taxi driver or banker a job if they were a convicted felon, so why should it be different in the world of football? On the other hand, the club certainly has the right to offer Evans a new contract, but whether they will or not is a different question. To some people, this question may have a straightforward answer, but when you hear Evans' statistics for the side, it's apparent to see why this a lot more challenging than first anticipated.

In the season of his conviction, the former Manchester City youngster netted 35 goals in all competitions. He achieved numerous personal accolades including League One Player of the Month in March 2012 as well as being included in League One PFA Team of the Year and being nominated for League One Player of the Season. It appears that he was a fundamental stalwart in the Sheffield United side, so his arrest would have come as a major blow to the side. The Welshman's absence was evident as the Blades only scored 56 goals in the 2012/2013 season, 36 goals less than the previous season. Looking at the statistics on the pitch, Evans could be the difference to ensure United secure promotion to the Championship so it is easy to see why the board would like to offer Evans a new contract.

 

Re-signing the Welshman would also spell a few troubles for the Bramall Lane side. The first of which could see a drop in support for the club. Over 150,000 people have signed the petition to persuade the Chairman of the club, Kevin McCabe, to "refuse to reinstate Ched Evans as a player at Sheffield United." With the backing of the charity, Women’s Aid and Rape Crisis, the Welsh international is not a very popular man at this moment in time, and could face a barrage of abuse, if he returns to football. This is not forgetting the torment and tauntings, United would face from their fierce rivals, Sheffield Wednesday. Although not in the same league, I'm sure the Wednesday fans would find some devious way to wind up their neighbours.

 

Leading on from the point above, would the Sheffield United fans accept the player back at the club? That is a question that I don't know the answer to, and one that we will find out in the foreseeable future. I mentioned Evans' not-too-shabby goal scoring record, and, if the fans were not to accept him back, would this affect his on field performance? I think the answer to that question is pretty conclusive. Regardless of his stature amongst the fans, he may struggle to recapture his elusive form having been out of the game for such a long time.

 

If we imagine Evans returning to the red and white of Sheffield, what message would that send out to the youth at the club, both supporters and players? It would not send out a very good impression, particularly as the player is yet to issue an apology to the victim. I don't think he is helping himself in this situation particularly as it looks like he is needing the sympathy. Yes, it is possible that he was wrongly imprisoned, but when it is claimed that the victim was "too drunk to consent," it appears that he is in a differing opinion to the judge and jury on this occasion.

 

On a final note, if United don't employ the striker again, he could find it very difficult to secure another full time professional contract. Who would want a player on their books who has been convicted of rape? If Evans were to find a different club, I am sure that he would have to take a severe wage cut, or possibly even drop down a couple of divisions. Amongst all this gloom for Ched Evans, he as a shining light. Suleyman Koc proved that he can reignite his career after serving a prison sentence and is now bombing it in the Bundesliga with his newly promoted club, Paderborn.

 

Having said that, manager, Nigel Clough has commented that it is "above football matters" and that it's his decision as to whether he will be included in the first team or not. In true footballing fashion, Clough is washing his hands of any major decisions that had to be made. From this it's difficult to tell whether the manager is backing the signing, but I don't think he is too keen. Evans could find himself warming the bench until, he proves that he is truly repentant.

 

In conclusion, it is a very touchy issue with many view points to be considered. Obviously, you cannot deny the player his right to work, but the club can refuse to offer the player another contract - it's part and parcel of the game. According to the MailOnline, Ched Evans is set to be offered a new contract worth £500k, so time will tell whether the Clough and McCabe take into account the opinion of the public.