A year on from arriving at the Mike Riding Ground the youngster will now make the step up from the NWCFL Premier Division into professional football with Bolton Wanderers.

Having been released from Blackpool in the summer of 2018, Town snapped up George who went on to be converted from a left-back, where he’d spent his time playing for the Seasiders’ youth sides, to play in the centre of midfield.

Giving his thoughts on George, following his move, Town boss Lee Ashcroft has spoken about the potential he saw in the youngster.

"He’s had an outstanding year with us," said Ashcroft.

“I couldn’t be more pleased for the lad. He has a superb attitude, is willing to listen and learn, and his confidence has come on in leaps and bounds.

“A big difference for him will be the speed of thought in the professional game, but George is a very intelligent footballer and has a great football brain for such a young lad."

It is the second time that Ashcroft has helped provide Whites boss Keith Hill with a player, having previously overseen Joe Bunney’s move to Rochdale in 2013.

Bunney is also now on Wanderers’ books and has gone on to make 160 Football League appearances.

Whilst all at Town at delighted for George on his, Ashey understands the reality of the situation even if he’s lost one of his key players as Town battle for a third successive promotion.

"Well, that’s always the downside to be honest. My job of course is to do the best for Longridge Town but also to improve players, and if we are to be known as a progressive Club in that area it can only be good for us.

“These young lads that are released from Clubs often drift away, and can even stop playing the game if they become too disillusioned, but it’s still a game that should be enjoyed.

“If you can get them enjoying the game again, then you see the benefits out on the pitch in their performances and that is very satisfying."

Looking further ahead following Thomason’s move to Bolton, Trotters boss Keith Hill has promised to take a First Team squad to the MRG for a pre-season friendly ahead of next season.

"That’s a great gesture from Keith to be honest, I’ve known him a long time and when I rang him about George back in October he was great with the lad and his family, giving him a week-long trial, good feedback and committed to this January move there and then.

“We are all very proud of George at Longridge, and the other young players that have moved on having done well for us, and I know that he’s in good hands at Bolton."