According to the latest report from Football Insider, Leicester City is keen for their young star, Silko Thomas, to gain first-team experience with Wigan Athletic.
Earlier this summer, the same outlet reported that Leicester, who are new to the Premier League, were considering sending Thomas out on loan for the upcoming season. Despite interest from several EFL clubs, it is Wigan Athletic that has secured his services for the year ahead.
Thomas, a 20-year-old former Chelsea player, was also attracting attention from Championship clubs this summer, highlighting his high regard. Since joining Leicester City last summer, Thomas has yet to make a first-team appearance but was on the bench last season.
Consequently, Leicester decided to loan him out to the Football League to gain valuable experience as they prepare for another Premier League season after winning the Championship title last season.
During his time with Leicester’s development team, Thomas has been impressive, scoring five goals and assisting four in the recent PL2 campaign.
This performance has bolstered his reputation as a future star. Reflecting on his first season at the club earlier this year, Thomas expressed hope that his performances would lead to greater opportunities. His move to Wigan provides a bigger platform to showcase his talent.
Thomas told the club’s website: “It’s been very good, getting my confidence up and I find it very beneficial. I know that people are going to be watching me.
I’m out there, so I just need to keep doing what I’m doing on the pitch, keep impressing, and hopefully soon I’ll be back over there (with the First Team). For sure, if I keep working hard, that’s what I’m looking to do, get over there and keep impressing.”
Thomas’ move to Wigan adds to Shaun Maloney’s attacking options as the Latics continue their rebuild.
He becomes Wigan’s third loan signing from a Premier League club this summer, joining Liverpool’s Calvin Ramsay and Brentford’s Michael Olakigbe. Like Thomas, Olakigbe is known for his ability to trouble defenders on the flanks, indicating Maloney’s emphasis on a wide attacking approach for the upcoming season.
Starting the previous campaign with an eight-point deduction, Wigan Athletic aims to push towards the top of the table this season, having overcome past off-field issues. Maloney is building a smart squad, with new additions such as Dion Rankine, Will Aimson, and former Fulham player Tyrese Francois.
Toby Sibbick also joins from Scottish side Hearts, as the 2013 FA Cup winners gear up for their season opener against Charlton Athletic next month, with higher expectations compared to last year.
In summary, Silko Thomas’ loan move to Wigan Athletic is a strategic step for both Leicester City and Wigan. Leicester hopes to see Thomas develop through regular first-team football, while Wigan bolsters their squad as they aim for a stronger season.
Thomas’ performances in the PL2 and his determined attitude reflect his potential, and his loan spell at Wigan will be crucial for his development and future prospects with Leicester City.
