FOOTBALL is morally bankrupt.

We need look no further than the Ched Evans case for proof of this.

There has been uproar at the prospect of a convicted rapist returning to the job he was doing before going to prison.

Around 40,000 people this week signed an online petition against the 26-year-old joining Oldham Athletic. Whether clubs like it or not, they have a duty of responsibility to the wider community and that should include the people they employ. No matter what the crime, it seems there is always a club willing to take a player on.

Oldham, again, signed former Kidderminster Harriers striker Lee Hughes in 2007 after serving half of a six-year sentence for causing death by dangerous driving. Hughes also did a runner from the crime scene.

In this case, Evans was released from prison in October after serving half of a five-year sentence. He will remain on licence for the next two-and-a-half years and be on the Sex Offender Register indefinitely.

While not technically a free man, there is nothing to stop him returning to his chosen profession.

But that doesn’t mean he should be welcomed back with open arms and there are reasons why it doesn’t sit well with people.

Evans has shown no remorse, insisting the woman had consented to sex. He may protest his innocence but he is guilty in the eyes of the law. His victim has had to change her identity and move house after being named on social networks.

Football has long had issues with morals. Players dive, feign injury and bad-mouth officials . What’s more, they’re allowed to get away with it. The severity of the Evans case is incomparable but the principle remains the same.

Here, football has a chance to say enough is enough.

The sport is powerful and a strong stance would send out a strong message. But I wouldn’t hold your breath.