Joe Thomas joined Newport County in July 2024, signing from Swansea City on a two-year contract. A versatile and attack-minded full-back, Thomas is capable of operating on the right side of defence while also offering an attacking threat further forward.
Born on March 12, 2002 in Pontypridd, Wales, Thomas began his football journey with Cambrian & Clydach, joining their academy at the age of 12. He enjoyed an impressive final season with the club, registering six assists — the highest total in the Cymru South — while also scoring a remarkable hat-trick from right-back against Taffs Well.
His performances attracted significant interest, with 13 Premier League and Football League clubs scouting the defender before he joined Swansea City's academy in January 2022. Thomas subsequently featured regularly for Swansea City's under-21s, scoring several goals during his development with the club.
Thomas made his Newport County debut in the EFL Trophy against Reading on November 12, 2024, before making his League Two debut 11 days later in a goalless draw against Notts County.
He quickly established himself in the first team during his debut season, making 23 League Two appearances and scoring once. His first EFL goal came in February 2025, when he found the net in a 2-1 victory over Morecambe at Rodney Parade.
Thomas continued to develop during the 2025-26 campaign, making 29 League Two appearances and playing 1,542 minutes. He scored one goal during the season, while also featuring in the EFL Cup and EFL Trophy. Across all competitions, he made 33 appearances.
His goal of the season came in spectacular fashion against Harrogate Town on April 11, 2026. Thomas collected the ball outside the area before shifting onto his right foot and unleashing an unstoppable effort into the top corner to help Newport County secure a 2-1 victory. The strike was voted Newport County's 2025-26 Goal of the Season by supporters, receiving 35% of the vote.
Thomas has now made more than 50 League Two appearances for Newport County across his first two seasons at the club. His pace, crossing ability, defensive work and willingness to get forward make him an important option for Newport County heading into the 2026-27 season.
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