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Transfer news: Hartlepool boss Ronnie Moore admits interest in signing Ched Evans

Image: Ched Evans: Ronnie Moore is keen to bring the 25-year-old to Hartlepool

Hartlepool boss Ronnie Moore has revealed he would like to sign convicted rapist Ched Evans.

Former Sheffield United and Wales striker Evans had an offer to train at the Blades retracted last month following strong opposition to the proposal, but Moore, who took over at the Football League's bottom club this week, is open to the idea of bringing in the 25-year-old.

Speaking after Saturday's 1-1 home draw with Oxford United in League Two, Moore said: "It's a possibility.

If it could happen, I would want it to happen. He (Evans) is a proven scorer; he's served his time and the boy wants to play football.
Ronnie Moore

"If it could happen, I would want it to happen. He is a proven scorer; he's served his time and the boy wants to play football.

"If there is a chance he might come here, I don't see any reason why he shouldn't.

"He has made a mistake and maybe he hasn't apologised in the right way - and I know he has an appeal case pending - but if he gets on the park, he would go a long way to getting us out of trouble."

But Hartlepool's Labour MP Iain Wright was outraged at the prospect of Evans signing for the club.

He said: "I really hope we don't. I love my club, I love Hartlepool United. There's a reason why no other team in the Football League wants to sign him - he is a pariah.

"I was at the match today. There were lots of young lads there supporting Hartlepool United. I just think it sends out such a wrong message to young men."

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