Charlton have completed the signing of young Arsenal midfielder Jerome Thomas in a �100,000 deal. The 20-year-old has penned a two-and-a-half year deal at The Valley after failing to force his way into Arsene Wenger's first-team plans at Highbury.
"It's a great move for me and I'm very excited about playing for Charlton," said Thomas.
"Charlton were not my only option but I really wanted to come to this club."
He added on the club's official website."I've always been impressed with the way they play football and that was the main attraction.
"I think the way Charlton play will suit my game."
Thomas was offered a new one-year deal at Highbury, but after the Gunners signed Jose Antonio Reyes he decided to pursue a career elsewhere.
Addicks boss Alan Curbishley is delighted he chose to join Charlton.
"Jerome can play in a number of positions, including both flanks and up front, and he has a chance to show us what he can do," said Curbishley.
"I think he has been stifled of first-team opportunities at Arsenal.
"Perhaps he has lost his way a bit, but now he has a fresh start and if he reaches his potential here he will get his chance."
MMIX
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I think Jerome has been stifled of first-team opportunities at Arsenal 