Sorba Thomas, a midfielder for Hull City, was included on the team's bench for their Premier League fixture against Chelsea on Saturday, less than 24 hours after his Land Rover overturned on his way to training. The 27-year-old player reportedly walked away from the accident, which occurred around 8:30 a.m. on Friday on Millhouse Woods Lane in Cottingham, without sustaining any injuries.
The vehicle, a grey Land Rover Defender, was found on its roof with visible damage. Hull City released a statement on Friday expressing relief that their player was unharmed. The club had acquired Thomas from Championship side Stoke City earlier in the month.
Thomas has since traveled to London and was photographed arriving at Stamford Bridge for the match. He joined Hull City for a reported £10 million on deadline day and has made two appearances for the club since then, including a start in the Carabao Cup loss to Sunderland and an appearance off the bench in a Premier League draw against Aston Villa.
Prior to the accident, manager Liam Jakirovic had spoken positively about Thomas's capabilities, stating his belief in the winger's ability to contribute at the Premier League level. Jakirovic highlighted Thomas's effectiveness on the left wing, his footballing intelligence, delivery, end product, and set-piece ability, as well as his defensive responsibility and speed.
Thomas himself had expressed his excitement about his Premier League debut on Instagram following the Aston Villa match, calling it a "pinch me moment" for him and his family.