Hughes could join Oldham after prison

Oldham Athletic have sparked controversy by offering a contract to jailed former West Brom striker Lee Hughes.

The 31-year-old is serving a six-year sentence for causing death by dangerous driving but he could be released this summer.

West Brom terminated the striker's contract but the Latics are prepared to offer him a return to the professional game if he is released at a hearing later this year.

Director Barry Owen said: "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. As far as the club is concerned, Lee deserves a second chance and we consider this a top-class signing.

"We would ask supporters and the general public not to pass moral judgment."

Hughes helped West Brom to promotion to the Premiership, scoring 11 goals in the last season before his conviction.

He started his career at Kidderminster Harriers, where he earned a reputation as a prolific goalscorer and earned a move to West Brom.

He later spent a year at Coventry before returning to The Hawthorns.

Owen added: "Lee Hughes is currently serving his sentence in one of Her Majesty's Prisons, and the club will not make any comment which would prejudice his upcoming parole hearing.

"We hope that, if his hearing is successful, Lee will be available to play for Oldham Athletic near to the start of the season.

"I am in regular contact with his family, and the player is training very hard and is exceptionally fit.

"Lee is very keen to do well for, and bearing in mind his past footballing achievements, I hope this will turn out to be one of our best signings for many years.

"The club continues to liaise with the player, his family and the Prison Service to ensure a smooth transition, and we would like to thank the Prison Service for their co-operation.

"These negotiations are a result of many months of hard work, and Oldham Athletic has always been mindful of the sensitive nature of this signing."

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