James Thomas

Who is James Thomas?

James Thomas is a Welsh former professional footballer who last played for Dandenong Thunder in the Victorian Premier League which is one tier below Australia's national competition. He represented Wales at Under-21 level.

Thomas began his career as a trainee with Blackburn Rovers, turning professional in August 1997. He struggled to establish himself at Ewood Park and was loaned to a number of clubs before being released at the end of the 2001–02 season. A highlight of his loan spells was when he scored the winning goal for Sheffield United against Preston North End, helping them win 3-2 when they had at one stage trailed 2-0. Another loan spell at Bristol Rovers yielded one goal against Rochdale. He scored three goals during his time at Blackburn; once in the league against Bolton Wanderers and twice in a League Cup tie against Portsmouth. In May 2002 he joined Swansea City and quickly established himself in the first team. He is fondly remembered for the hat-trick he scored in a 4–2 victory over Hull on the last day of the 2002–03 season to save his hometown club from relegation to the Football Conference.