Bobby Thomas' loan stint with Bristol Rovers has been terminated with immediate effect and the Burnley defender has signed on loan for League One rivals Barnsley.
The centre-back started in all but one of Rovers' 20 League One games after he joined on transfer deadline day in September, but his stay with the Gas has come to an abrupt end, joining the Tykes on a deal until the end of the season.
Rovers manager Joey Barton has become increasingly frustrated with his team's defensive record in recent weeks and in Thursday's press conference ahead of Saturday's game at Accrington Stanley, he said he was prepared to be ruthless with his resources in the remainder of the transfer window.
But the timing of Thomas' departure is a surprise, with the departure of Alfie Kilgour to Mansfield Town coupled with an injury for Lewis Gibson leaving the Gas short on numbers at the back, with Luca Hoole and James Connolly the remaining available central defensive options.
"Bobby Thomas’ loan deal at Bristol Rovers has been terminated with immediate effect," a Rovers spokesman said.
"We would like to thank Bobby for his efforts during his time at the club."
Barnsley head coach Michael Duff told his club's website: "He’s done really well at Burnley amongst the youth setup and has been in around the first team in recent years. He had a good spell recently at Bristol Rovers meaning he’s up and ready to make an impact in this squad.
“As a staff we are happy that Bobby has chosen Oakwell to develop his football and further his promising career.”
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