Thomson’s departure is a set back for Eagles recruitment

Widely expected to either return to Newcastle for the 2012/2013 season, Andy Thomson has opted instead to take on a new challenge with recently promoted French NM1 club La Rochelle. With Joe Chapman already committing for next year, the decision is a major blow to the Eagles’ hopes of re-uniting the majority of last year’s all conquering roster.

The Newcastle club’s success has been built on firm foundations and their history of player retention is the envy of the rest of the BBL. Eagles’ officials had believed Thomson would be back to add to his vast collection of silverware for at least one more year, but the lure of the ambitious French club was too hard to resist for the Mancunian big man.

On the announcement of his departure Thomson said, “I’d like to thank the whole organisation as there’s too many people to thank one by one, back room staff, coaching staff, the head office, my teammates and of course the OOTA!”

Andy continued, “I had a great year and was happy I could bring back some good times. Hope to work with you again. I’ve signed with La Rochelle in France N1. I’ll be back in the castle for Fab’s Camp in July.”

Thomson’s decision will not only disappoint Fab Flournoy but also the Manchester Giants who held hopes of persuading the Manchester-born 6ft 9ins power forward to become a cornerstone of the new franchise.

Eagles’ talisman Charles Smith raised fears of a similar departure with a recent comment on his Twitter about hitting Newcastle for the last time, although an Eagles source was keen to pour cold water on this and the club still hopes to secure his signature for the new campaign.