Young midfielder ruled out for between six to eight months with knee injury
ALBION have suffered a second major injury blow in just over three weeks – after George Thorne was ruled out for between six to eight months.The Baggies’ worst fears were confirmed when scans revealed the 20-year-old ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee at Everton on Wednesday night.
It is the same injury that has ruled Zoltan Gera out for the season, which the Hungary international suffered as recently as January 5 in Albion’s FA Cup draw at QPR.
Ironically, it was Gera’s injury that prompted the Baggies to recall Thorne from his impressive loan spell at Peterborough and he has since made seven first-team appearances.
The central midfielder will shortly undergo an operation to repair his knee before beginning his rehab at the club’s training ground.
Head coach Steve Clarke said: “This is really sad news – both for George personally and for the club as a whole.
“George is a talented young midfielder who has underlined his potential by doing really well for us in recent weeks.
“To lose two players in quick succession to such long-term injuries is really tough to take.
“But, as we are already with Zoltan, we’ll give George our full support and look forward to seeing him back on the field as soon as possible next season.”