39 transfers across five countries - The player who never stops moving

According toBBC.

Background

Zev Thomas, who started his career at Rotherham United under Mark Robins, is now a coach and player at Derne & District. Following the club's North East League title win, Thomas aims to guide the team to success in the FA Cup, reflecting his progression from player to footballing leader.

Why is this important?

Zev Thomas is an icon of club-hopping players, with his long career reflecting the challenges and opportunities players face in football. His numerous transfers demonstrate the player's flexibility and ability to adapt to different clubs and environments, making him a role model in the North East League. Its participation in the FA Cup also represents a major achievement for the Derne & District club, strengthening its position in local football.

Key points

• 39 transfers across five countries - The player who never stops moving.
• Zev Thomas, a 36-year-old footballer, has had an impressive career that has seen him make 39 transfers across five countries, where he currently works as a coach and player at Derne & District FC. He prepares to face Runcorn Town in his first FA Cup match.
• 39 moves across five countries - the footballer forever in motion.

“If I don't get the money I think I deserve, I'll leave,” is how Zev Thomas describes an extraordinary playing career that has seen 39 transfers in 18 years. Thomas, who was born in Bradford, is considered one of football's most notable travellers. He played for various clubs such as Rossington Maine (five times), Mickleover Sports (four times), and Freakling Athletic (three times), in addition to trials in the United States, Canada and Belgium.

The list of clubs Thomas played for continues to include Cowdenbeath, Boston United, Hargate Town and Scarborough Athletic. Despite these moves, it appears that Thomas's life in action may be over, as he has taken over the position of coach and player at the ninth tier club, Derne & District, since his appointment in 2024.

Having won the North East League title last season, the club are now preparing to play their first FA Cup match on Saturday against Runcorn Town, one of 219 matches in the first special round. “We've gone from playing in the Doncaster Saturday League in 2021 to participating in the FA Cup,” says Thomas. “It's a huge achievement for the region because they've never seen this team compete in this tournament before.”

Thomas' career at Rotherham United began when Mark Robins, the former Manchester United striker, was the youth team coach. He was released in 2008 without playing an official match, a decision that came as no surprise to him. "I was rebellious and naive at the time," says Thomas. "I remember I scored a goal in a reserve game, and the next day we had to do a recovery run. At the time, I didn't think I had to do that. If my attitude had been better, I probably would have actually done well."

After his dreams of reaching the top were dashed, Thomas began an incredible journey through non-professional football in England, as well as spells at clubs in Kansas, Ontario, Scotland and Belgium. In the 2013-14 season alone, he had contracts with Sheffield, Mickleover Sports, Scarborough Athletic, Matlock Town, and Goal.

In 2013, Thomas nearly quit football after a hip injury, worked in a call center in Rotterham and considered joining the Army before getting the chance to resume his career with Thunder Bay Chill in Ontario. When asked if he kept a record of his many destinations, he replied: "No, there were definitely so many that I can't count. It was a good experience, but it could have been better. I moved up or went sideways for the money."

"But playing in different countries was a great experience and I encourage all young players to try it if they get the chance. I have worked under different coaches with diverse ideas and philosophies."

After a life spent on the move, Thomas no longer needs to travel far from his current home, a five-minute walk from Dearne and District Stadium, where he lives with his wife Mary and their children. Thomas combines his part-time job with Derne & District, who attracted 453 fans to their home league match against Penistone Church on July 28, with his role as head coach of Derby County's under-12s.

He is still registered to play for the non-professional club, but now prefers to coach from the sideline and pass on his experiences to the players. He adds: "Sometimes I feel like I'm a hypocrite because I used to move between clubs for the extra money, and now I tell the players: Keep doing what you're doing, because the money will come."

What's next?

With Derne & District's FA Cup clash with Runcorn Town approaching, Thomas is looking forward to achieving positive results as a coach and player. This match represents an opportunity to highlight the club's achievements in the North East League and boost team morale. The team's success in this tournament may open new doors for Thomas and his club in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened with Zev Thomas?

Zev Thomas, footballer, has moved to the position of coach and player at Derne & District FC after an extraordinary career that saw 39 transfers in 18 years.

Who confirmed Zev Thomas' move to Dearne & District?

Zev Thomas's move to Dearne & District has been confirmed following his appointment in 2024.

Why now?

Zev Thomas was appointed to Derne and District after the club won the North East League title last season.

What changes occurred in Zev Thomas's career?

Zev Thomas's career has changed from touring player to coach and player at Derne and District.

When will Derne and District make their first FA Cup match?

Derne and District will make their first FA Cup match on Saturday against Runcorn Town.

Related articles

• My dream is to play for Real Madrid, and now I am a player for Sansi and I am trying to take advantage of opportunities
• Mourinho's experience with the Real Madrid star against Fiorentina shows his desire to strengthen...
• Transfer market updates - details, deals and news 21 July

Related articles

• Mattacion: “The transfer market is not over yet. Muñoz’s injury complicates matters.”