Ched Evans: Cleared footie ace’s club Chesterfield express their delight after he is dramatically cleared of raping woman in hotel

CHESTERFIELD Football Club have expressed their delight after Ched Evans was found not guilty today of rape.

The former Wales and Manchester City forward, who fought a five year battle to clear his name, broke down in tears and hugged his partner Natasha Massey following the verdict at Cardiff Crown Court.

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Chesterfield chief executive Chris Turner said: 'We are naturally delighted with the outcome, especially for Ched, his family and friends. We can now all move forward and focus on football.

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The club added: 'Chesterfield chief executive Chris Turner has welcomed the news that Ched Evans has been found not guilty of rape following a two-week trial at Cardiff Crown Court

'No further comment will be made at this stage.'

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The Wales international has been in fine form for the Spireites this season - despite a two-year break in his footballing career.

Despite protesting his innocence from 2011, several clubs turned down the services of the 6ft striker from St Asaph.

However, Evans has found his goalscoring prowess again since joining the Derbyshire club and netted four league goals in eight appearances.

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There have also been similar messages of support from others in the footballing world too.

Rangers midfielder Joey Barton tweeted: "Ched Evans found not guilty, but how does he get his reputation and his career back?"

And former Everton player and ex-Manchester City manager and player Peter Reid also wrote on the social networking site: ";Ched Evans, should be some apologies coming your way lad."

Prior to the trial, Evans had been sidelined with a heel injury and was not available during the two-week case in Cardiff Crown Court.

He is unlikely to be in contention for a place for Chesterfield's away game at Southend United on Saturday.