Nottingham-born Darnelle Thomas became a first-year scholar and joined the Under-18s squad ahead of the 2025/26 season.

Originally starting out as a wide attacking player, Thomas has made the transition to full-back since joining the Rams' Academy at Under-12 level.

An athletically strong player who can handle the ball well in tight areas, he was a key contributor during the Under-15s’ Floodlit Cup run in 2023/24.