Footballer Ched Evans Pleads Not Guilty To Rape

Footballer Ched Evans has pleaded not guilty to rape at Cardiff Crown Court.

His trial has been set for 4 October this year.

Evans is charged with one count of rape, alleged to have taken place in 2011.

At the brief hearing, Evans - who was wearing a black suit, white shirt and navy tie - spoke only to confirm his name and enter a not guilty plea.

The 27-year-old was represented by Kieran Vaughan QC and junior counsel David Emanuel.

John Philpotts QC, representing the prosecution in the case, appeared via video link from Mold Crown Court.

The legal hearing took place in front of High Court Judge Mrs Justice Nicola Davies, who said she would be the judge in the trial.

The case will take place in Cardiff.

Evans is an ex-Wales international who played for Sheffield United, Manchester City and Norwich.