OLYMPIC CHAMPION JESSICA Ennis-Hill wants her name removed from Sheffield United’s stadium if Ched Evans is offered a contract at the club.
The London 2012 heptathlon champion was born in Sheffield and has a stand named after her at Bramall Lane, but the 28-year-old is opposed to convicted rapist Evans’ possible return.
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Evans was released from prison last month after serving half of his five-year sentence and has subsequently been offered the chance to train with his former club, who have insisted the decision was taken at the request of the Professional Footballers’ Association.
It is an issue that has been the cause of much debate and the club’s two main kit sponsors have issued a threat to withdraw their support if Evans is re-employed, with Ennis-Hill now following suit.
She said in a statement: “I believe being a role model to young people is a huge honour and those in positions of influence in communities should respect the role they play in young people’s lives and set a good example.
“If Evans was to be re-signed by the club it would completely contradict these beliefs.”
Three club patrons have already resigned from their positions, but United have not yet made a decision on Evans’ future.
The striker has always maintained his innocence and has submitted an appeal to the Criminal Cases Review Commission in an attempt to clear his name.
Jessica Ennis-Hill wants name removed from Sheffield United stand if Ched Evans gets contract
OLYMPIC CHAMPION JESSICA Ennis-Hill wants her name removed from Sheffield United’s stadium if Ched Evans is offered a contract at the club.
The London 2012 heptathlon champion was born in Sheffield and has a stand named after her at Bramall Lane, but the 28-year-old is opposed to convicted rapist Evans’ possible return.
Evans was released from prison last month after serving half of his five-year sentence and has subsequently been offered the chance to train with his former club, who have insisted the decision was taken at the request of the Professional Footballers’ Association.
It is an issue that has been the cause of much debate and the club’s two main kit sponsors have issued a threat to withdraw their support if Evans is re-employed, with Ennis-Hill now following suit.
She said in a statement: “I believe being a role model to young people is a huge honour and those in positions of influence in communities should respect the role they play in young people’s lives and set a good example.
“If Evans was to be re-signed by the club it would completely contradict these beliefs.”
Three club patrons have already resigned from their positions, but United have not yet made a decision on Evans’ future.
The striker has always maintained his innocence and has submitted an appeal to the Criminal Cases Review Commission in an attempt to clear his name.
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