Christian Walton is enjoying his loan move so far this season with the Hatters
*This piece was written for Brighton & Hove Albion's programme, Seagull. We thank the Albion's media team for sending this to us to share with our fans.
Albion goalkeeper Christian Walton is reaping the benefits of a season-long loan move to Luton, having helped the League Two club towards the top of the table.
Under the guidance of former Albion coach Nathan Jones, Walton has started every league game for the Hatters so far this season, with the side hitting top spot in the division following last week’s 4-1 home win against Wycombe.
“It’s gone really well,” Christan told Seagull. “My first game away at Plymouth was always going to be a difficult start, especially going back to my hometown club, but we got off on the right foot winning 3-0 and we had a great start in the EFL Cup too against Aston Villa [Luton won 3-1].
“We did really well in the next cup game against Leeds [lost 1-0] too, and if we had taken our chances we would’ve definitely have won the game.”
Aside from Jones, the 20-year-old has also linked up with former Albion team-mate Glen Rea at Kenilworth Road.
“It’s unreal [playing alongside Glen]. That was one of the main factors why I came to Luton. I knew that it was going to be easy settling in with him being there and the way he spoke about the club was magnificent.
“He’s been doing really well and that’s great for Luton Town. We’re both living together in St Albans too, and as we both signed at the same time, it was only a matter of time before we got our place.
“I’m really enjoying living up here and it’s not too far from Brighton, so I can come back and see my friends there.”
The shot-stopper says it is no surprise to see Luton doing so well in the league and felt the side laid down a marker with their cup exploits.
“We showed the quality we have at Luton in the two games against Championship outfits,” he added. “We held our own and were the better team on both nights. From my point of view, the way we play is not
typical of League Two.
“The Villa game was on Sky and we definitely put a statement out to the other teams and the people watching the game.
“The day I walked into the club, I saw the ambition here and the players that Nathan has recruited have been brilliant.
“It hasn’t shocked me that we’ve been doing so well with the squad we have at the club.”
Walton is still in regular contact with the Albion and first-team goalkeeping coach Ben Roberts, as he looks to secure a starting berth with the Seagulls longer-term.
“I speak to Ben after every game and he gets all my match clips sent over to him. He looks through them, gives me feedback and lets me know where I need to improve.
“He’s been up to one of the league games already and due to the friendship he has with Nathan, they communicate with each other constantly.
“Ultimately, I’ve come to Luton to get that experience so I can come back and push for the number one spot at Brighton, which is what I want and where I want to be.
“It’s a slow process as a keeper, but if I can keep building on these performances, then I can get there.”