Hull manager Steve Bruce reveals support for Oldham over proposed Ched Evans deal

Hull manager Steve Bruce has revealed he is one of three Premier League managers who offered support to Oldham in their attempt to sign convicted rapist Ched Evans.

Bruce is a close friend of Oldham chairman Simon Corney, whose club decided not to pursue a potential deal for the former Wales and Sheffield United striker on Thursday.

Their decision followed a backlash from supporters, sponsors and the public as they considered whether to offer a deal to Evans.

Bruce said: "I have to be honest and say I have spoken to Simon. I’ve known him for a lot of years now.

"I know that in his mind he had looked at the case and was of the opinion to give the kid (Evans) a chance."

Evans - who was released from prison in October half-way through a five year sentence - was refused leave to appeal but his case is now going before the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC), and is being fast-tracked.

For me, he deserves a second chance and the appeal can't come quick enough for Ched.

The Criminal Cases Review Commission is an independent public body set up in 1997 to examine would-be appeals and decide which of them deserve, on legal grounds, to go thorough to the Court of Appeal.

The CCRC have stressed the fast-tracking of the Evans case has nothing to do with his being a footballer or a celebrity, or the fact there is such public interest in the story.

However, when asked by Sky Sports News HQ whether it was down to "sound legal reasons", a spokesman said "yes".

Bruce believes there is basis for an appeal, adding: "It has divided opinion of course but I don't think most people have really looked at the case. They have just seen Ched Evans as a convicted rapist.

"I can only say on behalf of myself, and I know this might be upsetting, that when you do look at the case in depth and detail, there is a question of the rape.

"I know he’s been convicted but, when you do look at the evidence, there is a case for an appeal."

Bruce added: "For me, he deserves a second chance and the appeal can't come quick enough for Ched.

"It must be a frustrating and difficult time for him and I think the events of the appeal, for me, will see Ched be allowed to play football again."

Evans was linked with a return with former club Sheffield United late last year, but substantial public pressure and threats from patrons and sponsors to withdraw their support led to a decision not to allow him to train with the club.