Mon 17 Nov - Posted in Breaking News
Time to read: 2mins
Derby County is saddened to confirm the passing of its former player Rod Thomas.
Thomas had recently been unwell, and it is with great sadness that the club has learnt of his passing, on Saturday 15th November, at the age of 78.
Thomas, a defender who represented Wales at international level 50 times, was a member of Derby’s 1974/75 First Division title-winning side, and he attended a 50-year anniversary celebration of the achievement earlier this year.
The legendary Dave Mackay signed Thomas from Swindon Town in 1973 for £80,000, after he had made over 350 appearances for the Robins.
Thomas played 22 times in Derby’s league-title-winning season, while he was also a regular in the backline during the subsequent 1975/76 and 1976/77 seasons before departing for Cardiff City.
As well as being a First Division champion with Derby, Thomas also added a Charity Shield winner’s medal to his collection by playing the full 90 minutes as the Rams defeated West Ham United 2-0 at Wembley Stadium in August 1975.
Thomas also featured in European action for the Rams in both the European Cup and UEFA Cup, including in the memorable 4-1 success over Real Madrid in the former at the Baseball Ground in October 1975.
In total, Thomas played 118 matches for Derby and scored twice, both coming in the 1976/77 season in an 8-2 home win over Tottenham Hotspur and a 1-1 away draw with Queens Park Rangers.
Derby County’s deepest condolences and thoughts are with the family and friends of Rod Thomas at this difficult time.
