Former Blues goalkeeper-coach John Keeley says he believes Christian Walton is a top-six Championship keeper.

The 26-year-old signed a permanent two-and-a-half-year deal with Town on Wednesday having been on loan from Brighton during the first half of the season.

Keeley worked with Walton until departing Portman Road following Paul Cook’s sacking in December.

The 60-year-old, who is setting up a goalkeeping school in Worthing, heaped praise on Walton.

“He has been amazing,” he told the Brighton Argus. “He is a top-six Championship goalkeeper.

“He is very professional, trains well and thinks about things he is doing. [Keeper-coach] Ben [Roberts] has done a brilliant job with him at Brighton.”

Walton made six full appearances for the Sussex side having joined them as a youngster in 2013, spending most of his time as a Seagulls player out on loan.

Photos: Matchday Images

Len_Brennan added 10:34 - Jan 21 I think most of us on here already believe we have gotten ourselves a quality keeper who can move up the leagues with us when we do; but it's still nice to see an expert, who has seen him day in, day out, saying these things, even after he has left the club.
11

Suffolkboy added 10:53 - Jan 21 CW is obviously not a man to speak out of turn or without sincerity : his actions in signing after indicating how much he's enjoyed being a part of ITFC tell the real story . Above all ,beside his talent and dedication, we've got a man of admirable qualities and character ! COYB
7

ChateauWines added 11:01 - Jan 21 Walton looks a top prospect. On another angle back in the 80's. John Keeley was a goalkeeper at Southend. He came into the jewellers I worked at with their other keeper Mervyn Cawston. He was looking at buying a chain, chuckedit to Keeley to look at and he dropped it
4

Monkey_Blue added 13:35 - Jan 21 I'm Not entirely convinced by a PC acolyte praising one of his signings given cook has said he's keen to return to management ASAP and might want a GK coach. Call me cynical. However he may be right and only time will tell. Unfortunately he's currently a mid table league one keeper and let's hope his prediction comes true sooner rather than later.
-3

Karlosfandangal added 14:29 - Jan 21 Yes I agree with people on here he is the best since Bart by a country mile. Can we keep him if we stay in league one is the problem. Need promotion soon
1

cat added 16:22 - Jan 21 Ahh what a surprise, the mere mention of the name Cook sends Monkey back into his natural pessimistic & tragic state of mind. How anyone can turn this good news story into negativity is simply baffling. Good work Town.
0

Blogs 295 bloggers

Ipswich Town Polls