A testament to the progress made by McLoughlin during the 2024/25 season at Club Thorne, the Trinity management were determined to make Jacob a longer term member of the Gainsborough set up. Undoubtedly impressed with the care the Doncaster based club took of a highly rated prospect.

As the ink dried on his deal, Jacob exclaimed: "I am buzzing to sign, and get the deal over the line. I was around the club in pre-season last year and in the cup runs last year, which was great to be a part of. That and dual registering with Club Thorne has massively helped to get the minutes in - and it's just set me up for this year as well."

The move came about due to an excellent relationship between Trinity boss, Russ Wilcox and Club Thorne Chairman, Rich Sennett, "It made it easy, because I could be here, or there. They worked it well for me - and I got to play in a variety of positions. Right of a three at the back. Centre midfield, right back - so a good variety - and good experience in the different positions."

And now this season, continuing in the same vain, "I'm just happy to get the minutes in, wherever I can. I really want to kick on, maybe try another cup run - and see how we get on in the league as well."

"If I can get as many minutes as possible. And maybe chip in with a couple of goals too, that would be nice! But ultimately I am focussed on getting as many minutes as possible."

When asked, former Manager at Thorne, Jimmy O'Neill paid tribute to the player, "I can’t speak highly enough of Jacob - the lad is a manager’s dream. He possesses a maturity beyond his years, which shows itself in his performances on the pitch and character in the dressing room."

"Last season he was outstanding for us and by the final few months of the season, he had improved again and was often the standout player on the pitch. His first class attitude and total commitment to his football will see him develop even further under Russ’ guidance this year. Jacob deserves every success coming his way and we wish him the absolute best."

The former York City Scholar, makes it seventeen signed players at Russ Wilcox's disposal ahead of the August 9th league campaign opener at home to Ashton United and the Gainsborough boss spoke of his pleasure at the deal that keeps Jacob with Trinity: "I am delighted to see Jacob McLoughlin sign for the club. He’s been with us for a while now on non contract forms. He’s played a full season last year at Club Thorne, which helped him massively in his development. He picked up the Player of the Year Award there as well."

"He’s come back to us this pre-season and really impressed us. He’s figured in most of our friendlies and performed well at right back, centre back and in centre midfield. He’s got plenty more development in him too, as he’s still only 20 years old. Well done Jacob you deserve this contract. Welcome on board."

We're sure everyone will join us in formerly welcoming Jacob to the football club. He is now available to sponsor, by contacting Dave Horsley on 07971 022024

Home Shirt: MGMT Group
Change Shirt: Available
Third/ Pre-Season Shirt: Available

Article by Rob Hughes (@AATM_Media)
Images by Sean Cook (Foxby Media)