Collingwood has promoted midfielder Josh Thomas onto its senior list.

The 25-year-old, who has not played at the highest level since 2014, has been rewarded for a fine patch of VFL form with a return to senior contention.

Thomas served a two-year league-imposed ban in 2015 and 2016 after testing positive to a banned substance in March, 2015.

He returned in a full capacity from his suspension in February, 2017.

“Josh goes up onto the primary list as a mid-season elevation, which clubs are able to do subject to demonstrating they have room in their Total Player Payments,” General Manager of Football Geoff Walsh told Collingwood Media.

“It’s a great reward for him and he has ultimately been rewarded by selection in the senior team.

“He has done a good job getting back after some good form in the VFL.”

Thomas originally joined Collingwood with the 75^th overall selection in the 2010 National Draft.

A product of Queensland club Redlands, Thomas overcame a series of foot injuries to make his debut in the opening round of the 2013 season.

He played a further 31 games until his most recent outing in round 23, 2014, and collected the Harry Collier Trophy as Best First Year Player in 2013.

Thomas has averaged 23.3 disposals from seven VFL games this year.

His recent form has been impressive, winning 28, 30, and 31 disposals in consecutive weeks against Sandringham, Werribee and Box Hill. He leads the club's VFL team for clearances, and ranks fourth for disposals.



Josh Thomas leaves North Port Oval during Collingwood's win over Port Melbourne in the VFL last weekend. Photo: Shane Barrie.