Barrow have confirmed that they have signed Burnley centre-back Bobby Thomas on loan until the end of the season.
Bobby Thomas Joins Barrow on Loan From Burnley
BREAKING: #BarrowAFC have held off competition from a number of clubs to clinch the signing of young Burnley defender Bobby Thomas on loan for the rest of the season.
Read the full story here now…https://t.co/HBEbreVlYv
— Barrow AFC (@BarrowAFC) January 22, 2021
Need for First-Team Experience
The move to Barrow will provide vital first-team minutes for Thomas.
The 19-year-old has been a regular for the Clarets’ U23 side so far this season, making eight appearances in the Premier League 2. However, manager Sean Dyche is keen to see him step up to men’s football.
The defender has been lingering around the first-team at Turf Moor for some time now. He made his senior debut for the club in the Carabao Cup earlier this season.
However, Burnley are cautious not to throw Thomas and some of his U23 team-mates into regular Premier League action to early. Speaking to Lancashire Live earlier this season, U23’s manager, Steve Stone, said: “Bobby hasn’t been out on loan yet and needs his first loan and then we reassess him.
“This is the planning and structure we have done, we know exactly what they need to do before we come to the point of are they going to play in our first team or not? And if not then is there an exit strategy for them.”
As a result, a move to Barrow will prove worthwhile for the youngster. He is the sixth player to join the club this window, as Michael Jolley looks to reassemble a squad to fend off the threat of relegation.
What Was Said?
Speaking about his new signing to the Barrow website, Jolley said: “We’re very fortunate to have been able to secure him until the end of the season because a lot of clubs have been after him.
“He’s very highly thought of at Burnley, so we’re just really delighted that he’s chosen to come and play his football at Barrow during his first senior loan and we’re really looking forward to working with him.
“It has probably helped that I had three years at Burnley so I know Bobby and all the staff so I would like to thank everyone there for their help in getting the deal done, I am sure he will do well for us.”
Main Photo
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