Oxford United have announced that midfielder George Thorne has left the club by mutual consent.
The 27-year-old joined on a season-long loan from Derby County last summer but, like much of his career, had an injury-hit year with the U’s. So much so, that the midfielder managed just 167 minutes of football during his time at the club.
In January, he decided to cancel his Derby contract and sign a short term deal with the U’s, ultimately playing for free during his time with the club.
Speaking to the clubs’ official website, Thorne said: “I’ve loved my time with Oxford. It’s a good club and the Gaffer and the lads have been brilliant.
“Obviously it has been frustrating not to play more games but I still think I have something to offer and I’ll explore all the options ahead of the new season. I thank everyone at Oxford and wish the club well for the future.”
Thorne made his debut in the Carabao Cup second round tie against Millwall, in which he scored in the penalty shootout. He featured in the 6-0 win at Lincoln before making his first start against West Ham United. However, he managed just 23 minutes against the Hammers before picking up a shoulder injury.
He would spend months of the sidelines before picking up a few minutes against Blackpool and Newcastle respectively. He did manage to get some game time against AFC Wimbledon and Accrington Stanley but wouldn’t feature again for the U’s.
