One of Oldham’s sponsors has severed ties with the club ahead due to what it called the “imminent signing” of the convicted rapist Ched Evans. Verlin Rainwater Solutions says it will no longer be associated with the club, who are expected to make a statement about the 26-year-old striker on Thursday...Craig Verling, a director of Verlin Rainwater Solutions which sponsors a stand at Boundary Park, said in a statement: “After receiving the news regarding the imminent signing of Ched Evans it is with great regret that Verlin Rainwater Solutions will no longer be associated with Oldham Athletic. “We would like to take this opportunity to make clear that we feel that Mr Evans should be able to lead a life without further punishment after serving his sentence, although our feelings remain the same that this should not be within the public domain where his previous behaviour may influence the next generation. “We sincerely wish the club a very successful future and have no regrets about being associated with Oldham Athletic over the past few seasons, but feel our continued support would be sending out the wrong message.” Oldham’s main sponsor is Sports Direct, which is owned by Mike Ashley who is also proprietor of Newcastle United, though it has yet to comment. Mecca Bingo, another Oldham sponsor, threatened earlier in the week to withdraw its support.