An investigation into Ched Evans's rape conviction will reportedly be fast-tracked by the Criminal Cases Review Commission.

The former Sheffield United striker has maintained his innocence following his release from prison last Friday.

The 25-year-old served half of a five-year sentence for raping a 19-year-old woman at a hotel back in May 2011.

A CCRC spokesman told the Observer that Evans's lawyers have told them to prioritise the case, which means that the inquiry could be carried out in weeks rather than months.

The spokesman added: "The decision to prioritise the case simply brings forward the starting point of the investigations to decide whether or not there may be grounds for us to refer the case to the Court of Appeal.

"It does not in any way represent a judgment by the commission as to the merits of the case or its chances of being referred."

After his release, Evans claimed that he "regrets" cheating on his girlfriend Natasha Massey, who has stood by him.