Thomson started his professional career at Dundee United. He made his first team debut on 2 May 1987 in a 2–1 victory at Tannadice against Hibernian, but went on to play just five other first team games for the club before being loaned out to Barnsley. He signed for Forfar Athletic in 1991 before joining Raith Rovers in 1993.
Thomson went on to have spells at Hull City, then a loan spell from the English club at Motherwell, before joining Airdrieonians in 1998. Thomson finished his career playing at Dunfermline Athletic, where he played alongside Scott M. Thomson (as had briefly been the case at Raith), although part of his final season was at Brechin City on loan.[5]
Coaching
Thomson was given his first coaching job at Dunfermline Athletic while still technically registered as a player.[2] At East End Park Thomson forged a special bond with striker Craig Brewster and goalkeeper Derek Stillie and later joined them both at Tannadice when the striker was appointed player-manager of Dundee United. Thomson remained as goalkeeping coach under Craig Levein after the departure of Brewster and Stillie. Thomson was released from his contract in May 2009 after Levein stated his intention to appoint an experienced player who could also coach, rather than a specialist coach like Thomson.[6][7] Thomson was then hired by Hibernian to serve as their goalkeeping coach, replacing Gordon Marshall.[8] Thomson departed Hibernian in the summer of 2014 and subsequently joined Ross County.[9]
Personal life
He is the father of current Raith Rovers goalkeeper Robbie Thomson.
