Post by gw on May 30, 2007 9:45:51 GMT -1
Oldham are close to agreeing a deal to sign striker Lee Hughes when he is released from prison.
Former West Brom and Coventry player Hughes, 31, is set to be released from prison this summer.
He was sentenced to six years in jail in 2004 after being found guilty of causing death by dangerous driving.
"Lee deserves a second chance and we consider this a top-class signing," Oldham director Barry Owen told the club website.
"Oldham Athletic does not condone what happened and we are very sympathetic towards the family of the victim.
"However, Lee Hughes is now nearing the end of his sentence and he has paid the price for what occurred.
"We would ask supporters and the general public not to pass moral judgement.
"We hope that if his hearing is successful Lee will be available to play for Oldham near to the start of the season.
"The player is training very hard and is exceptionally fit. Bearing in mind his past footballing achievements, I hope this will turn out to be one of our best signings for many years."
Hughes began his career with Kidderminster before earning a move to the Baggies in 1997 for £350,000.
He signed for Coventry for £5m in 2001 but moved back to West Brom a year later for a fee of £2.5m.
Former West Brom and Coventry player Hughes, 31, is set to be released from prison this summer.
He was sentenced to six years in jail in 2004 after being found guilty of causing death by dangerous driving.
"Lee deserves a second chance and we consider this a top-class signing," Oldham director Barry Owen told the club website.
"Oldham Athletic does not condone what happened and we are very sympathetic towards the family of the victim.
"However, Lee Hughes is now nearing the end of his sentence and he has paid the price for what occurred.
"We would ask supporters and the general public not to pass moral judgement.
"We hope that if his hearing is successful Lee will be available to play for Oldham near to the start of the season.
"The player is training very hard and is exceptionally fit. Bearing in mind his past footballing achievements, I hope this will turn out to be one of our best signings for many years."
Hughes began his career with Kidderminster before earning a move to the Baggies in 1997 for £350,000.
He signed for Coventry for £5m in 2001 but moved back to West Brom a year later for a fee of £2.5m.
;D
