In August 2003, Thome joined Bolton Wanderers on a free transfer, and became a regular campaigner for the Trotters as they finished eighth in the Premier League and reached the League Cup final where they lost to Middlesbrough at the Millennium Stadium. In the summer of 2004, he moved to Championship side Wigan Athletic along with former Bolton teammate Per Frandsen. Thome was part of the Wigan side which were promoted to the Premier League for the first time in their history in 2005. His second season with the "Latics" saw him face less playing time which resulted in Thome being loaned out to Championship side Derby County for several months. Once the loan had expired with Derby County, he returned to Wigan Athletic where on the 7 February 2006, the "Latics" decided to release him from his contract. Following his release by Wigan, Thome joined Japanese side Vissel Kobe. He remained there for two seasons. In 2007, Thome announced his retirement from professional football.