Oxford United have made their fifth signing of the January transfer window after snapping up Derby County midfielder George Thorne on a permanent basis.
The 27-year-old, who has been on loan with the U’s this season, has left the Championship side by mutual consent and joins Oxford until the end of the season.
Despite only playing a total of 62 minutes over three games, it’s another exciting signing by U’s boss Karl Robinson.
Injury has hampered his playing time this season, something which has held him back previously in his career but felt happy with how the club have dealt with him during his time out.
Thorne told the Oxford Mail: “I was obviously quite unlucky to get that injury, but since then the club have been really good to me.
“I’ve felt very welcome throughout my rehab. I’m enjoying coming to work every day again, so I’m delighted.”
Although the midfielder isn’t fully fit, he did feature on Tuesday as the U’s played a behind closed doors friendly against Southend United.
Robinson revealed he wanted to keep hold of the 27-year-old and was delighted to reach an agreement.
He said: “I’m really pleased with how he conducted himself.
“He was the one who came to me and asked if this would be a possibility and he went away and made it happen.
“We’ve seen a real determination in him in the last month. The medical team and Shorty (head of physical performance Chris Short) have spoken highly of his dedication.
“Nothing that’s happened to him in his career has been his fault – it’s been a tackle, poor surgery, infections in injuries.
“The man deserves a break and I’m a big believer in giving people another opportunity. I really hope we can kick-start his career.”
