Ched Evans has won an appeal against his conviction for raping a 19-year-old woman - but must face a fresh trial.
The decision was announced following appeal proceedings last month.
The former Sheffield United striker was present in the packed London courtroom with girlfriend Natasha Massey by his side to hear the result of his conviction challenge.
In a short statement outside the court, Evans' solicitor Shaun Draycott said the former Wales international wanted to thank Ms Massey, the couple's family and friends and members of the public who have supported him.
Lady Justice Hallett, Mr Justice Flaux and Sir David Maddison had heard submissions over two days from Kieran Vaughan QC, for Evans, and from Eleanor Laws QC, for the Crown.
Evans, now 27, was convicted and jailed for five years in May 2012 for raping a 19-year-old woman in Rhyl, north Wales.
He was released on licence in October 2014 having served half his sentence, but his attempts to return to football were accompanied by sustained criticism from politicians, well-known football fans and campaign groups.
An initial appeal failed, but following a review by the Criminal Cases Review Commission the case was referred back to the appeal court last year.
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