George Thorne’s injury nightmare appears to be continuing after he was replaced just 22 minutes into his full debut for Oxford United.

The Derby County midfielder has been plagued by injury over the last few seasons and hasn’t been able to recapture the form that saw him become a Rams favourite.

Thorne had a loan spell at Luton Town in League One in the second half of last season, but only made three substitute appearances before returning to the Rams in pre-season.

(Image: 2019 West Ham United FC)

Again he was shipped out on loan, joining League One side Oxford United.

Thorne has made two appearances for the U’s so far this season, one in the League and one in the Carabao Cup, but both coming from the bench.

He was handed a start in their home Carabao Cup clash with Premier League side West Ham United tonight (Wednesday).

But his full debut lasted just 22 minutes, before he was taken off.

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“It’s bad news for United as George Thorne, on his first start for the club has to leave the pitch early. He is replaced by Mark Sykes,” the official club account tweeted.

Thorne left the pitch with what is suspected to be a serious arm injury, his arm in a sling as he walked off (pictured top).