George Thorne will be hoping to make an impact for Derby County next season, or he may find himself looking for a new club.
George Thorne (left) celebrates after scoring for Derby
George Thorne has endured a torrid time with injuries since moving to Derby County from West Bromwich Albion in 2014. After impressing for the Rams in a loan spell during their run to the play-off finals, the 24-year-old has failed to recapture his form since he was signed on a permanent deal. He has since then spent the majority of his Derby career on the treatment table.
Shortly after signing for Derby, Thorne fell victim to a cruciate knee ligament injury that kept him out of action for nine months. More short term injuries blighted Thorne’s progress before he made 36 appearances for the Rams last season. Just when it seemed like his injury troubles were finally behind him, Thorne suffered a fractured leg in the final league game against Ipswich Town. He has not played for Derby since.
With a return this campaign all but ruled out, Thorne’s next appearance in a Derby shirt is likely to be next season. This will be the final year of his contract which is due to expire in June 2018.
If Thorne is to fall victim to another long term injury then it could all but confirm his exit from Pride Park. Thorne has always figured in Derby’s immediate plans and is seen as a key figure in the side, when fully fit. However, Derby fans are beginning to question whether Thorne’s injury problems will ever subside and if it would be best to cut ties with the midfielder.
George Thorne has been limited to 39 appearances for Derby since signing permanently
Whilst Thorne’s natural ability has never been in question, his record of injuries will be a cause for concern and will bring in to question whether he can be a reliable, long term solution in the centre of midfield.
The Rams already have a number of options in the midfield area and it is yet to be seen whether Thorne can break into and stay in the team’s starting eleven. He has a new manager in the shape of Gary Rowett to impress when he returns back from injury, so Thorne will be hoping that he can convince Rowett that his immediate and long term future belongs with Derby.
Derby County manager Gary Rowett will be keen to look at Thorne in action
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