The Ched Evans Case

Sheff Utd's Phipps 'angry' over training U-turn

Sheffield United who where looking to sing their former striker and rape convict - Ched Evans have retracted their offer after heavy criticism in the media and from their own supporters.

Sheffield United's co-chairman said he was angry as their hands are tied with mob like behaviour from their set of supporters and others in the football.

"I'm angry that we are not able to get a chance to do for this footballer what should be done," Phipps said.

"The influence of mob-like behaviour has made it difficult to take the simple step of allowing Ched to train."

The American added: "I'm upset that we are not able to do what we wanted to do.

"But I acknowledge that my view is not the only view. My principles and the board's principles are not the only thing that matter.

"I will acknowledge that our decision to not let Ched train is probably a decision that will make it harder for him to get on with his football career in the immediate future.

"The people who believe that Ched should be punished for the rest of his life might call that a victory. I think of it as a defeat for the principle that punishment under the justice system should be left to those that are authorized by law."

Sheff Utd's shirt and major sponsors threatened to end their contract as they didn't want the club to sign Ched.