Rotherham United

Rotherham United have signed winger Jerome Thomas on a deal until the end of the season, subject to Football League and FA ratification.

Thomas becomes new boss Neil Warnock’s first signing after the former Arsenal and West Bromwich Albion winger put pen-to-paper following a successful trial with the club.

The 32-year-old was most recently plying his trade in the Premier League with Crystal Palace, where he worked under Warnock when the Millers boss was in the hot-seat at Selhurst Park.

Thomas confirmed his delight at earning a contract and is looking forward to joining the fight as the Millers look to preserve their Championship status.

“I have been training everyday and building my fitness up,” Thomas told www.themillers.co.uk

“The manager and Kevin have come in and they wanted to get the deal done, I have signed until the end of the season and we all share the same common objective which is to try and keep the club in The Championship.

“Initially it looked as though I was going to the USA or Asia but the opportunity arose to come and train here and to see if both parties were happy.

“I have kept myself fit, the training has been very good and Warney the Fitness Coach has been great with me helping me do extra. I managed to get 90 minutes under my belt in the reserves last week, and I will be looking to get as many minutes in as possible.”

Thomas is no stranger to The Championship after helping West Brom to promotion in 2010, whilst he also has experience in the second tier earlier in his career during his time with Charlton Athletic.

“I have played in The Championship before so I know what the division is about,” Thomas added.

“I know what it takes to get out of the league and I know how unpredictable it can be as well. 

“The main objective now is to start picking up points. I want to come here and create chances, work hard for the team and do everything I can to help the club achieve survival. 

“I’ve worked with the new manager at Leeds during a loan spell when I was at West Brom, and I also played under him at Crystal Palace where I have been for the past two years.

“There is a lot of ability in the squad and I know many of the players from my previous clubs. It is a very good team and I am delighted to be here."

The former England Under 21 international began his career with Arsenal before taking in spells with Charlton, Portsmouth, West Brom, Leeds and latterly Crystal Palace.

He will wear the number 7 jersey at Rotherham United.