Oxford United midfielder George Thorne is hopeful that he will get back to the best as the U’s continue their promotion push.
The 27-year-old, who made his first league start for almost two years as Oxford saw off Accrington Stanley, has had a disastrous injury-hit career, which included the first half of the season at Oxford.
He dislocated his shoulder in the first half as the U’s saw off West Ham United in the Carabao Cup back in September with the midfielder having managed just 67 minutes of football since joining on loan from Derby County in the summer.
But in January, Oxford managed to secure former England Under 19 man on a permanent basis dater he decided to terminate his contract with the Rams.
Against Stanley, Thorne managed 65 minutes before being replaced and he has backed manager Karl Robinson to get the best out of him with ten games remaining.
He told the Oxford Mail: “He’s been excellent with me. He trusts me and I trust him.
“I think he’s been very smart in allowing me a period since I got back from my shoulder to get up to speed and maintain fitness.
“He dips me in and out and I’ve been doing extra (sessions) to get as fit as I possibly can.
“The gaffer’s always said I will need you at some point, so make sure you’re ready.”
Oxford are planning to organise a behind closed doors friendly next week in order to give Thorne, Liam Kelly and Ben Woodburn some much-needed match fitness.
The three players would be a welcome return to the squad after a busy February which saw the U’s play nine games, but the injury problems at the club have eased off, with just skipper John Mousinho and youngster Malachi Napa the only two key absentees.
