Former Preston North End striker Ched Evans shared heartfelt sentiments as he spoke candidly about his departure from the club, detailing his decision to turn down a coaching role in favour of continuing his playing career at League Two club Fleetwood Town. At 36, Evans faced a pivotal decision that would impact the rest of his career, expressing that accepting the coaching position would effectively mean hanging up his boots as a player.
Evans, who made eight substitute appearances for Preston North End in the last Championship season, elaborated on his tough decision, emphasizing the depth of his affection for the club. "It took me months to make a decision because ultimately if I take the [coaching] job, I'm retired," he explained. Despite the bittersweet nature of his departure, Evans assured that his relationship with manager Paul Heckingbottom remains strong, underpinned by mutual respect and understanding.
"We left on really good terms, I wish him all the best. Although it was a sad thing because I loved it at Preston, the love for football outweighed that," said Evans, reflecting on his affinity for playing the game over transitioning into coaching at this stage of his career.
Ched Evans' tenure at Preston may have been marked by his role as a substitute, but his professionalism and dedication to the game have never been in question. His decision to move to Fleetwood Town for a third spell highlights his desire to continue contributing on the pitch, a testament to his love for the game and his unwillingness to step away from active participation just yet.
As Preston North End aims to reclaim their glory years, which saw them as inaugural Football League champions and FA Cup winners in the late 19th century, they continue to build a team capable of achieving modern-day success. While veterans like Evans choose paths that suit their individual careers, Preston’s focus remains steadfast on promotion aspirations and adding new chapters to their illustrious history.
To wrap up, a light-hearted joke in the spirit of friendly rivalry: Why don’t Burnley fans play hide and seek? Because good luck hiding when you’re always in the shadow of Preston North End! Here’s to hoping our paths cross again soon—on our terms, of course!
