Dundee United boss hails the return of 'integral' Luton keeper Walton on a season-long loan

Dundee United manager Jim Goodwin labelled the return of Luton goalkeeper Jack Walton for a second season-long loan as an ‘integral’ piece of his summer transfer business.

The 26-year-old, who agreed to head north of the border again yesterday evening, spent last term at Tannadice where he created history by keeping 19 clean sheets in 36 Scottish Championship appearances, bettering legendary stopper Billy Thomson’s haul in the 1986-87 season. In total, Walton conceded just 23 goals all campaign, earning a place in the Team of the Week following a string of stunning saves during a goalless draw against Airdrieonians on April 26.

His performances between the posts enabled United to win the title and secure an immediate return to the Scottish Premier League, meaning he will now face the likes of Rangers and Celtic in the upcoming season. Speaking to the club’s official website about the deal, Goodwin said: “Jack was a big presence in our defence last season - he made some vital saves on the road to our title success, commanded his area with distinction and was ever a calming presence behind the backline.

"Around the training ground, he is both a shining example of professionalism and a bright personality amongst the playing group. Ensuring he returned to Tannadice for our first season back in the Premiership was an integral part of our summer plans. Having him back in amongst the squad this morning was terrific and I am certain he’ll pick up from where he left off in a United jersey.”

Walton signed for Luton from Barnsley in January 2023, but has yet to make a senior appearance for the Hatters. The former England U18 stopper could face his Town team-mates as early as next month, when Luton head to Scotland to take on the Tangerines in a pre-season friendly on Friday, July 26.