EVANS BACKING WALES TO SEE OFF RONALDO AND CO

CHED EVANS has broken his silence to wish Wales good luck and to reflect on his first days back in football after a four-year absence. The former Manchester City and Sheffield United striker, 27, is now with Chesterfield after he served half of a five–year sentence when he was convicted of the rape of a 19-year-old woman in 2012. Evans, who has always protested his innocence, had the conviction quashed at a Court of Appeal hearing earlier this year. He is awaiting an October retrial. Speaking exclusively to

Sportsmail, the former Wales forward wished his team-mates all the best for the Euro 2016 semi-final against Portugal tonight and revealed his anxiety over his return to football with the League One club. Evans, who has 13 caps for his country, was unable to comment on his pending case. He did, however, hail the impact of former coach, the late Gary Speed, as his former international team-mates go in search of a place in a Euro Final few would have predicted. ‘They have done unbelievably well,’ said Evans. ‘I was a part of the philosophy Gary brought in and you can see how everything he preached is coming through now. This is probably the best squad they have ever had and just watching them is a joy.’ Pre-season training on Monday was his first action with a professional club since he was jailed — and he admitted he had nerves before his return. ‘It’s been enjoyable but I’ve been a bit anxious, going back in,’ he added. ‘I feel like a youth-team player trying to be a professional.’ Chesterfield believe Evans will clear his name and Wales are said to be considering a recall if he is found not guilty.