Thomas is facing one of the toughest challenges of his young life — at just 17 years old his second ACL reconstruction surgery, this time on his left knee.

Just two years ago, Thomas ruptured his right ACL, an injury that kept him out of football throughout his U16 season. After months of surgery, rehab, and determination, he worked incredibly hard to get back to doing what he loves most — playing football.

Sadly, on 14th February, during a match for AFC Bentley against Dinnington Town FC, Thomas suffered another devastating setback and ruptured his left ACL.

If Thomas goes through the NHS route, he could be waiting 12 months for surgery, followed by a 12-month recovery period. This would mean up to two more years away from football — something that feels unimaginable for someone who truly lives and breathes the game.

To give Thomas the best chance of returning to football sooner, we’ve made the difficult decision to pursue private surgery. This means he can have the operation in around 4 weeks, significantly reducing his time out and giving him a real chance to return to the sport he loves within a year.

Anyone who knows Thomas knows how much football means to him. He has always played at a high level, representing teams including:

Football isn’t just a hobby for Thomas — it’s his passion and his future. He is currently studying sports at college and hopes to become a full-time sports coach. He is also the assistant coach for Rotherham United Community Trusts U16 JPL team.

We are asking for your help to support the cost of private surgery and rehabilitation so Thomas can get back on his feet — and back on the pitch — as soon as possible.

Any donation, no matter how small, would mean the world to Thomas and our family. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this page would also make a huge difference.

Thank you for taking the time to read Thomas’s story and for any support you can give.