Charlton Athletic have had to take emergency action to solve their goalkeeping crisis and have acquired Sam Walker on a short-term contract.
With Harry Isted out with a knee injury, the League One outfit made a swoop for 32-year-old Walker. The shot-stopper has found it hard to settle since joining Reading in the summer of 2018 and is currently without a club since being released by Kilmarnock before the start of this campaign.
Vital Cover
The Addicks still have their number-one choice, Ashley Maynard-Brewer, but with Isted out they needed sure-handed backup. Walker will provide that. With over 360 appearances across all competitions for a myriad of clubs, he is thankful for the opportunity given to him.
The South London Press reported that Walker felt this was the right fit at this time. “I’m delighted. I’ve been keeping myself sharp and ready for the right opportunity and this feels good. I spoke with Stephen Henderson [Charlton goalkeeping coach] and obviously Harry 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.”
We are pleased to announce the signing of Sam Walker 🙌
The experienced goalkeeper has penned a short-term deal with the club 🤝#cafc
— Charlton Athletic FC (@CAFCofficial) October 16, 2023
With spells at AFC Wimbledon, Barnet, Northampton Town, Yeovil Town, Bristol Rovers, and Colchester United over his career, which started in the Chelsea youth ranks, Walker has a wealth of experience. It was his time at Colchester United that led Reading to snap him up in early 2014.
Andy Scott, the Addicks technical director, was enthused over the signing. “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.”
Writer’s View
Charlton has had a mixed start to the season, and as injuries start to mount up at this time of the season it is essential to keep good cover in vital positions. Sam Walker is an asset, and if called upon will be able to step up and prove his worth. Any dip in form from the current number-one choice and this deal could prove even more fruitful for the journeyman goalkeeper.
