Jerome has a 16 year professional playing career across English football.
EARLY LIFE
Jerome Thomas was born in Northwick Park Hospital in Harrow but his father was an active community leader and coach in Brent, running youth centres around Neasden and Chalk Hill Estate.
Jerome and his brother played locally and represented his borough against Brent who he remembered as having tough battles against. before being scouted by Luton Town Football Club at the age of 12. He joined an elite group of players including John Hartson and Matthew Upson who both ended up with Jerome at Arsenal.
Career highlights
Jerome’s early playing career was highlighted by his chance to represent England at Youth Level whist at Arsenal. where he also won two FA Youth Cups. However, after being unable to break into the Gunners first team Jerome moved to Charlton Athletic where he played 70 games in the premier league. Further moves led to him ending up at West Bromwich Albion where Jerome helped the Baggies gain promotion out of the Championship.
Jerome is currently head of academy recruitment at Watford FC.
Inspiring to Achieve
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Did you know?
Two times cup winner
Jerome won the FA Youth Cup twice whilst at Arsenal.
Room mate
Jerome shared a place in Stanmore when he was at Arsenal with fellow Brent footballer Jamal Campbell-Ryce who was playing at Charlton.
Childhood friends
Jerome has known fellow footballer Richard Langley since he was 3. “Our families were close, he used to sit me down & make me watch Pele training footage on VHS. Then I came on loan to QPR from Arsenal & we played together – which again, was a special moment for us both.”
Heading up Watford
Jerome is currently Head of Academy Recruitment at Watford FC.