Sturrock Stands Firm on Walton Deal

Plymouth Argyle boss Paul Sturrock has today quashed media questions about Simon Walton moving on loan to Blackpool, which questioned his judgement.

Sturrock, who signed the midfielder for £750k back in the summer, said 'I really think it's a good move for the lad (Walton), as he needs first-team football and I think Blackpool will play him in their remaining matches.

'As he cannot play against us, I don't see how Walton playing for one of our rivals can hurt us.

'Perhaps some people will see it differently and be surprised I've allowed him to join Blackpool, particularly if he does well for them.

'But I think there are two ways of looking at the move, because he could end up doing us a favour if he does damage to one or two of the teams around us in the league.'

There are rumours circulating that The Pilgrims had to let Walton go out on loan to stave off administration. The former Leeds United man will be on a fair wage at Home Park, and having played only 12 times for them this campaign, it seemed a no-brainer for all concerned.

Walton and Sturrock had a public disagreement earlier this term after the player's sending off away at Barnsley; he's only played four times since.

And with the Plymouth holding role taken up by the experienced Carl Fletcher, Walton doesn't seem to have a future down on the south coast.

Sturrock added: 'Since Carl Fletcher came in on loan, Simon's chances of breaking into the first-team have been limited. Hopefully, this move will work in the lad's and our favour.'

Walton is likely to make the squad for the away trip to Preston in a fortnight's time, as he can't play against his parent club next Saturday.

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