PAFC Cornish keeper Walton home on loan
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- Last Updated on Thursday, 19 November 2015 13:41
- Published on Thursday, 19 November 2015 13:22
Plymouth Argyle have signed England Under 20 keeper Christian Walton on loan from Championship outfit Brighton & Hove Albion until January 3.
The former Argyle academy stopper will vie with goalkeeping coach James Bittner for game time as first choice keeper Luke McCormick continues to recover from a groin injury.
Cornwall's Walton, 20, was at Bury on a season-long loan before a groin issue prompted his return to Chris Hughton's Seagulls after only four League One appearances for the Shakers.
The highly-rated six foot five stopper - born in Truro, raised in Wadebridge - has already featured in the Championship for Brighton and represented England U20s eight times.
Argyle boss Derek Adams said: “He’s played for England U20s, been with Brighton in the Championship and made his debut against Tottenham in the League Cup. He's coming back to his home club and it'll be a good move for him as well as us. I had a few options with goalkeepers but I feel it is important to get in someone that knows the football club.”
Walton could debut in Saturday’s Devon derby against Exeter at Home Park and Adams emphasised the need for goalkeeping cover, especially with the date of McCormick's return to fitness unknown and the loan window set to close.
Adams added: "Bittner did really well last week so it's good to have the choice between the two. I'm hopeful Luke will be fit very soon, he's progressing well, but I needed to cover all bases. With the loan window closing in less than a week’s time I can't be short and we've got to prepare."
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