23.03.2016 15:19 h

Evans rape appeal verdict due in April

The outcome of British footballer Ched Evans's appeal against his conviction for raping a 19-year-old woman is due to be announced in April, said judges at London's Court of Appeal on Wednesday after a two-day hearing.

The former Wales striker was released from prison in October 2014 after serving half of a five-year sentence for raping the woman in a hotel room in Rhyl, north Wales in May 2011.

His case was referred to the Court of Appeal by the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC), which investigates possible miscarriages of justice in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The CCRC announced last October that it had unearthed new evidence that could have supported Evans's defence.

This week's hearing saw Court of Appeal judges consider the safety of his conviction, but details of the legal argument cannot be reported under English law.

However, it can be reported that, if Evans wins his appeal, the prosecution will seek a retrial.

Evans was present in court for both days of the hearing, with girlfriend Natasha Massey by his side.

At the conclusion of Wednesday's proceedings, judge Heather Hallett -- one of three judges hearing the case -- said judgement on the appeal was being reserved and would be delivered "as soon as possible" in April

Following his release, Evans, 27, saw an attempt to resurrect his career with English third-tier club Oldham Athletic collapse amid a public outcry.

Evans came through the youth ranks at Manchester City and spent time on loan at Norwich City before joining Sheffield United in 2009. He has made 13 appearances for Wales, scoring once.

He has not played professional football since his release.