Alan King's stable jockey admits he's incredibly frustrated by the lay-off, yet has been busier than ever undertaking media work and spending two hours in the gym each day in Lambourn.
Looking ahead to the jump season as it gets into full swing, Thornton added: "The stable didn't have the high-profile winners it usually has last season and there should be some nicely handicapped horses this season.
"We hope Medermit will be a leading contender for the Arkle Chase and Mille Chief could be anything.
"He's rated 132 and we'll start him off in the Tote Silver Trophy Handicap Hurdle [Chepstow, 23 October], then think about the Greatwood Hurdle [Cheltenham, 14 November]."
He added: "I'd love to ride 40 winners to get my 1,000th by the end of the season but for the moment, I'd just looking forward to getting back."
