The former Sheffield United striker served two and a half years for the attack, and was released from prison this month.

CHED EVANS: 'I DID NOTHING WRONG - SHE WAS DEFINITELY UP FOR IT'

But Evans maintains that he is innocent, and that he is sorry for the incident only because it meant he’d cheated on his girlfriend Natasha.

‘I made an incredibly foolish decision and failed those people who trusted and believed in me,’ Ched says in his video statement.

OPINION: WHY CONVICTED RAPIST CHED EVANS SHOULD GET HIS JOB BACK

‘It is a rare and extraordinary privilege to be permitted to play professional football. Now that I served the custodial part of my sentence of two-and-a-half years it is my hope that I will be able to return to football.

‘If that is possible then I would do so with humility having learned a very painful lesson. I would like a second chance but I know not everyone would agree.

‘I don’t believe I have a given right to play again but for any club to take me on I have learned a valuable lesson and know that over time I can prove myself to be positive influence – not just on the pitch – but also in the community.’

Evans has had his case referred to the Court of Appeal in an attempt to overturn his conviction. He has always maintained the sexual act in May 2011 was consensual.