Preston North End have now confirmed the signing of Bamber Bridge playmaker Jamie Thomas in a true ‘Roy of the Rovers’ story.
Thomas joined Preston on trial in July after scoring twice against North End in a pre-season friendly earlier this summer.
After impressing against both Accrington Stanley and Wigan Athletic, Thomas has now been given a contract until 2022, though there is the option of another year.
This caps off a truly remarkable story. Just two months ago, Thomas couldn’t have even dreamed of being in this position.
On June 28th, Thomas spoke about his move to Bamber Bridge. He admitted he had fallen out of love with the game and was thankful for a chance with Brig.
Formerly of Blackpool, Bolton Wanderers and Burnley, Thomas has talent. He was Welsh youth international and looked set for a big future, but lost his way – by his own admission.
Thomas has admitted he has battled with anxiety and depression in the past, and has been down in non-league since leaving Burnley in 2018.
After stints at AFC Blackpool and Squires Gate, Thomas joined Bamber Bridge just a matter of weeks ago – and now finds himself back in the Football League.
Thomas has reflected on his journey, taking to Instagram to note that there have been ‘more downs than ups’ so far, but he had believed in himself and got himself back into professional action.
Maybe Thomas becomes the new Jamie Vardy. Maybe he ends up leaving next summer with only reserve games under his belt.
One thing is for sure; this journey is one that few players have been down. To have fallen out of love with the game and go through mental health problems and then made it all the way back up to the second tier is a quite remarkable feat.
Thomas may be the easiest Preston player to root for in recent memory, and we can only wish him all the best at Deepdale – he deserves it.