Ched Evans has issued an apology "for the effects" of his actions in 2011, although he maintains his innocence in relation to his rape conviction.

The 26-year-old was jailed in April 2012 for raping a woman in a North Wales hotel.

Upon his release from prison in October last year, after serving half of his five-year sentence, the Welshman had been linked with a move back to former club Sheffield United.

Any deal soon broke down amid public outcry, however, while Oldham Athletic became the latest side to withdraw a proposed offer earlier today under similar circumstances.

In a statement released via the Professional Footballers' Association this afternoon, Evans said: "I am grateful for the support of the PFA in helping me try to return to football and continue my career. Upon legal advice, I was told not to discuss the events in question.

"This silence has been misinterpreted as arrogance and I would like to state that this could not be further from the truth. I do remain limited at present by what I can say due to the ongoing referral to the Criminal Cases Review Commission and whilst I continue to maintain my innocence, I wish to make it clear that I wholeheartedly apologise for the effects that night in Rhyl has had on many people, not least the woman concerned."

The whole transfer saga had led to sponsors withdrawing their support from League One side Oldham, while public figures have also called for calm amid rising tensions on social media sites.

Evans added: "It has been claimed that those using social media in an abusive and vindictive way towards this woman are supporters of mine. I wish to make it clear that these people are not my supporters and I condemn their actions entirely and will continue to do so."

The PFA, which has stood by the player since his release from prison, added: "The PFA's position remains the same, as we have expressed previously, that any club which decides to sign him would receive our support. We fully recognise that this is a delicate and emotive case and entirely respect that there are opposing views."

An investigation into Evans's conviction by the Criminal Cases Review Commission is currently underway.