Leicester City left-back Luke Thomas looks set to return to King Power prematurely after being axed by Sheffield United.
As reported by TEAMtalk, the Blades want to cut short Luke Thomas’s loan spell to free up space in their squad for new signings.
The 22-year-old arrived at Bramall Lane on loan in the summer and was excited about the prospect of playing Premier League football, with the youngster claiming it was an ‘easy decision’ at the time.
Fast forward six months and Thomas has struggled to make the impact he would have liked in South Yorkshire.
Despite featuring in all 12 games under Paul Heckingbottom, the manager was subsequently sacked and replaced by Chris Wilder after picking up just one win and two draws.
Since making the appointment, the Leicester academy graduate has seen his game time restricted, only featuring on one occasion – the 2-0 defeat against Manchester City.
Brendan Rodgers rated Luke Thomas highly
When he rose onto the scene under Brendan Rodgers at the King Power, Thomas became renowned for his lung-bursting runs down the flank and the attacking impetus he’d provide the Foxes.
During his time at the club, Rodgers rated Thomas highly having awarded him his debut, ironically, against Sheffield United in 2020 with the former Leicester boss praising him for his ‘incredible composure’.
He went on to make 79 appearances under the current Celtic manager and was largely a constant figure under his tutelage, especially after the departure of Ben Chilwell in the summer of 2020.
Upon his return to Leicester, however, it looks as though he will struggle to get into the team.
Luke Thomas needs a Championship loan
Thomas could find it hard to break into Enzo Maresca’s plans, especially at a stage of the season when Leicester are blitzing through the division.
He could potentially play the left-back/centre-back hybrid role in the team, but given the form of James Justin and Manchester City loanee Callum Doyle soon to return, opportunities could be at a premium for him.
The most likely outcome is Thomas being shipped out on loan or moved on permanently, with the former being the preferred avenue.
During his time at Sheffield United, Thomas was restricted to a set system and forced to defend for ninety minutes.
He needs to join a side, potentially in the Championship, who play attacking football and encourage their full-backs to drive forward.
That would suit the 22-year-old down to the ground and would allow him to show his talent in the final third rather than being stuck defending the edge of his own box.