George Thorne signed for Oxford United after being released from his contract by Derby County in the January transfer window. The talented midfielder has had a rough run of injury misfortune and hopes to rebuild his career with Oxford, and that can continue when his side come up against in-form Sunderland.
George Thorne Could Play Big Part for Oxford United
A Big Addition
Derby loaned Thorne out to Oxford United at the start of the current season. However, shortly into his first start for the club against West Ham United in the Carabao Cup, he dislocated a shoulder. It is an all too familiar tale for a player who represented England up to and including U19 level. George Thorne was a key figure in Steve McLaren’s Derby team who just missed out on promotion to the Premier League in 2014. Unfortunately, two serious knee injuries put a promising career on hold.
His potential was recognised by his first club, West Bromwich Albion, for who he is the youngest player to make a senior appearance. Thorne now wants to start enjoying the game again and rebuild his career. Oxford United manager Karl Robinson is more than happy for him to do that at his League One club. Robinson spoke highly of his acquisition. He told Sky Sports: “He at one stage was one of the best players in the Championship. He was running games on his own, his weight of pass, his vision.”
George Thorne Signing a Timely Boost
After an exciting cup performance against Newcastle United, Oxford United suffered a 4-0 thumping at Peterborough United. An injury-time goal from Matty Taylor snatched Oxford a draw at Burton in their next outing. Oxford United now sit tenth in the league and a fit and revitalised Thorne will boost their play-off bid. Thorne is a proven performer at Championship level and to get his services at no cost is a huge bonus.
Having lost two key players to Brentford in the January transfer window Oxford need quality replacements. Thorne has not played a league match since March 2018 and he will need time to get match sharp again. However, Oxford may have just pulled off a very canny bit of business once he is fully match fit.
Next up at the Kassam is a huge game against fellow promotion chasers Sunderland. Injuries and suspension for Oxford United could see Thorne make a start. However, with his lack of match fitness, this may still be a game or two too soon. Oxford have just one league win under their belt in 2020 and desperately need to start winning again to keep their challenge alive. In contrast, Sunderland arrive in Oxford on the back of six wins in their last nine league games.
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