Coventry City

The 19-year old was only able to make 13 appearances last season having struggled with a knee injury in the early part of the season and suffered several set-backs.

Having played in many of last summer's pre-season games, it was expected the Coventry-born midfielder would’ve played a major part in last season.

Thomas admitted he was playing catch-up throughout the year but believes it was a good learning curve for his progression as a footballer.

The Academy graduate said: "Last season was difficult for me really. I did last summer's pre-season and was starting games but then two weeks before the start of the season, I got injured which was a major blow.

"It meant I was playing catch-up throughout last season and that was difficult. It was really bad timing and then I had a few set-backs as well so it was the toughest season I have had.

"It was a bit of a learning curve for me really because it is always hard being injured but I know I will be able to come back stronger next year."

Speaking at Ryton training ground where he was getting a check-up on a previous injury, Thomas wants to use the off-season productively to make sure he is ready for pre-season.

He added: "It is good to have a bit of time off, put your feet up and just relax. It is very intense being a footballer and you need to time to recover and rest the body.

"People sometimes don't realise that we only really get two weeks off in the year because we are starting our fitness programmes again now.

"Obviously, I like to watch my fitness during the summer anyways to make sure that I don't fall behind in any of the fitness tests during pre-season.

"We have all got our programmes now which say we have to do our work in the pool, make sure we are eating right and retaining our fitness.

"I want to hit the ground running in pre-season to make sure I start the season well and that work starts here really."