According to the Oxford Mail, Oxford United manager Karl Robinson wants to sign a free agent following the latest injury to Derby County midfielder George Thorne.
Thorne joined Oxford on a loan deal until January back in August.
The holding midfielder, who has suffered two ACL injuries and a broken leg during his career, was biding his time at Oxford before making his debut in the League Cup.
(Photo by Arfa Griffiths/West Ham United FC via Getty Images).
After 19 minutes, however, Thorne had to be replaced after dislocating his shoulder. It’s another setback for the Derby ace in what has been a terribly unlucky past few years.
Oxford manager Karl Robinson said his club would support Thorne. However, the Derby loanee is due to have surgery and will be out of action for three months.
Another former Derby player, Jamie Hanson, is also out with injury until December.
The situation leaves Oxford desperately short on midfield options. The Oxford Mail claim the club will look at the free agent market, and manager Robinson hinted as much.
It is a conversation we have had and let’s see where we go. There’s a lot of games to be played between now and Christmas and I think it’s important we do have a look at that. We do have one or two ideas of someone we can fill that role with.
George Thorne had Premier League potential:
Thorne, meanwhile, will be hoping to return to action after his latest injury. The 26-year-old hasn’t completed 90 minutes at senior level for over 18 months now.
Derby supporters have fond memories of the player. He had the potential to play at Premier League level, but injuries mean Championship level may now be beyond him.
(Photo by Arfa Griffiths/West Ham United FC via Getty Images).
The former West Bromwich Albion player’s contract at Derby expires next summer.
Also see: Club confirm new deal for Derby County player after impressive form.
Also see: Derby County boss provides fitness update on Jack Marriott ahead of Luton Town.