Oldham Athletic’s proposed deal with convicted rapist Ched Evans has fallen through.
The club has bowed to pressure from sponsors and decided against signing Evans, who was released from Wymott Prison in Lancashire on October 17 after serving half of his five-year sentence.
Oldham released a statement on Thursday afternoon confirming the decision, saying: "The whole issue has divided opinion and the Club has been put under unbearable pressure as a result.
"Proceeding could have placed significant financial pressure on the Club and continued to be a divisive influence. As a consequence the deal could not go ahead."
The club added: "We deplore and condemn the vile and abusive threats, some including death threats, which have been made to our fans, sponsors and staff whilst this process has been in the public domain."
Earlier, an Oldham board member told BBC Sport that the deal has fallen through because of "enormous pressure from sponsors and threats to staff and their families".
According to Sky Sports, a threat from Oldham’s main sponsor ZenOffice to end its relationship with the club was also a factor in changing the club’s mind.
In response, Jewish Women's Aid said in a statement: "We are pleased that Oldham has decided not to sign Ched Evans. They are right not to employ a convicted rapist to [a] high-profile position, because of the potential reputational risk and the message it sends out to others."
The organisation, which deals with issues surrounding women and violence, added: "Football clubs play an important role in British society, and they should continue to respond appropriately to the sexist attitudes that underpin the abuse of women and girls that are used to excuse crimes such as the rape committed by Ched Evans."
On Wednesday, club owner Simon Corney said there was an 80 per cent chance of Oldham signing the Welsh international, though he did refer to complications associated with the move.
He said: “It’s not straightforward and there are some legal issues. There might be a cost implication, but you have to stick to your principles. We weren’t surprised by the backlash.”
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