Sam Walker bolsters goalkeeping department

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Charlton Athletic are pleased to announce the signing of experienced stopper Sam Walker.

The 32-year-old, who made 28 Scottish Premiership starts for Kilmarnock last season, brings a wealth of experience to the Addicks’ goalkeeping department having made more than 350 career appearances.

After penning a short-term deal with the club until early January, Walker said: “I'm delighted. I've been keeping myself sharp and ready for the right opportunity and this feels good. I spoke with Stephen Henderson and obviously Harry [Isted] is out for a little bit so they need a bit of cover and someone to come in.

“I feel ready to contribute to the squad who are obviously going really well at the moment. I know a couple of the lads anyway, so I've come in and fitted in nicely. I'm looking forward to contributing to the team.”

Technical Director Andy Scott added: “Sam is a very experienced goalkeeper who will push Ash for the first team shirt while Harry is recovering from his injury and then compete with them both.

“He has played a lot of first team football at all levels and has demonstrated maturity and quality in the time he has spent with us and gives us excellent cover in the goalkeeping department.”

Born in Gravesend, Walker came through the ranks at Chelsea’s academy and was part of the 2009/10 FA Youth Cup winning team.

While with the Blues, he took in loan spells with Barnet, Northampton Town, Yeovil Town, Bristol Rovers and Colchester United, who he joined permanently in January 2014.

The 6ft 6in goalkeeper made a further 165 appearances for the U’s before signing for then-Championship club Reading in the summer of 2018.

Following three years with the Royals, which included loan stints in League One with Blackpool and AFC Wimbledon, he moved north of the border to Kilmarnock.

Walker will wear the Addicks' number 40 shirt.

The deal is subject to international clearance.

Charlton are next in action on Saturday when Reading visit The ValleyClick here to purchase your tickets.

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