Thomas began his professional career in his native country Denmark with Superliga side Odense BK.

The highly rated goalkeeper initially served as an understudy to club legend goalkeeper Lars Høgh, and was therefore loaned out to Vejle BK for six months, where he played six league matches.

Upon his return he was again sent out on loan, this time to Svendborg fB.

English manager Peter Reid surprised everyone when he brought the unknown 22-year old to Sunderland in July 1998, but for just £510,000, he proved to be one of Reid's most astute pieces of business.

He immediately showed his class by helping the Black Cats to promotion in to the Premier League, writing himself in to club history in the process with a staggering 29 clean sheets, smashing the clubs previous record.

His superb form in the North East alerted Denmark boss Bo Johansson, who called him up to the national squad to replace the injured Peter Schmeichel in November 1999.

Sorensen gained legendary status in Sunderland in 2001, when he saved a penalty kick from Alan Shearer in the dying moments of the game, to preserve a valuable win over arch rivals and neighbouring club Newcastle United.

For the 2002 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign in 2001, he took over from the retired Schmeichel and played a pivotal role in helping the Danes to qualification.

He was then instrumental, as Denmark won their first round group ahead of Senegal, Uruguay and defending World Cup champions France to book a second round clash against England.

After Sunderland suffered relegation from the top flight in 2003, Aston Villa swooped to bring the keeper to Villa Park for £2,000,000 after making almost 200 appearances at the Stadium of Light.

Once again representing his country in an international tournament, Sorensen played in all his country's games at 2004 European Championship, gathering the official man of the match award after both the 0-0 draw with Italy and the 2-0 victory over Bulgaria.

Before joining the Potters today, Thomas enjoyed a super career in the West Midlands, going on to make almost 150 appearances for the Villains, and representing Denmark in 72 international matches.