Former Sheffield United player Ched Evans has been released from jail

It has been confirmed that former Sheffield United striker Ched Evans has been released from prison after serving half of a five-year sentence for rape.

A statement posted on Evans' website confirmed his release from Wymott Prison in Lancashire just before 5am on Friday, and said he will continue to fight to clear his name.

The statement read: "Today at 5am he was released from custody and will continue the fight to clear his name.

"Chedwyn Evans maintains his absolute innocence and his family, friends and many who know the true facts of the case believe that his conviction was a gross miscarriage of justice."

The 25-year-old striker, who has won 13 caps for Wales, was jailed at Caernarfon Crown Court in April 2012 after being found guilty of raping a 19-year-old woman in a hotel room in Rhyl, North Wales in May 2011.