Oxford United have further strengthened their squad with the signing of midfielder George Thorne on loan from Derby County until January.

George, 26, played in the same England youth side as Rob Hall and in 2010 became the youngest player ever to make a senior appearance for West Bromwich Albion. He enjoyed spells on loan at Portsmouth, Watford and Derby before making the switch to the Rams permanent in 2014. Since then he has played over 60 games for Derby as well as having a spell on loan at Luton Town last season.

He joins on the same day that striker Matty Taylor returned to the club on loan from Bristol City and Head Coach Karl Robinson told us:

“George is a fantastic passer of the ball and can open up a defence when games get tight. He has had terrible luck with injuries but would have played a lot more games at a much higher level otherwise. Even so he has played over 100 games in the Premier League or Championship. He knows he has a point to prove but we know we are getting a very good footballer and hopefully the move works out perfectly for all of us.”

George told us:

“I spoke with Karl and there are good things happening at Oxford right now. His sides have a reputation for playing good football and that suits me really well. I have worked hard to get fit again and now I just want to get match sharp and help Oxford build on a good start to the season.”

See the full interview in iFollow right now.