Ex-Manchester United defender joins Macclesfield

The 30-year-old came through the academy at Old Trafford and went on to sign his first professional contract with the Red Devils back in the summer of 2010.

Captaining United’s illustrious youth team that included the likes of Paul Pogba, Jesse Lingard and Ravel Morrison, Thorpe led the side to the Reserve League title as well as an U18s league championship and FA Youth Cup success.

He was also capped by England at every age level from U16s to U21s and was part of the side that won the UEFA European U17 Championships in 2010.

A loan spell at Birmingham City was also forthcoming, but the defender suffered an ankle injury which limited his progress at St Andrew’s.

Thorpe made his Manchester United first team debut in September 2014 when Louis van Gaal brought him on against West Ham United.

Since then, he spent two years with Rotherham United, featuring on loan for Bradford City and Bolton Wanderers during his time with the Millers.

He has also played in India for ATK - managed by former Manchester United and England striker Teddy Sheringham.

Photo credit: Macclesfield