BREAKING: Preston North End man leaves permanently after one year at the club

Preston North End goalkeeper Jack Walton has joined Dundee United permanently.

The shot-stopper joined the Lilywhites last summer from Luton Town, but now rejoins his former side after one year at Deepdale. Walton penned a three-year contract at PNE and was signed as back-up to Daniel Iversen.

He played two Carabao Cup games against Barrow and Wrexham in August, with a late error made in defeat to the latter. He was next called upon in January, after Iversen suffered an injury blow.

In the third successive appearance, Walton had a difficult afternoon as Preston were thrashed 4-0 at Middlesbrough. Dai Cornell then deputised for the following seven games, until Iversen eventually returned.

Walton did get some football before the season, though. He joined Cambridge United on an emergency loan and played against Bromley, in a top-of-the-table League Two clash. He now heads back to Tannadice Park looking to build on his 85 games for the Terrors.

Upon his return, he said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be back. Dundee United is a club that means a lot to me and from the moment I left, I always hoped there would be an opportunity to return one day.

“We achieved some incredible things together over the two seasons I was here and I’ve got brilliant memories of my time here already. Winning promotion and then helping the club achieve European football made it a really special period for everybody connected with Dundee United.

“As soon as I became aware of the opportunity to come back, it was something I really wanted to make happen. I can’t wait to get started again and play in front of the supporters at Tannadice once more.”

It leaves Preston with Iversen and youngster Li-Bau Stowell as contracted goalkeepers, though the club did confirm they are in talks with Cornell about fresh terms. Time will tell whether North End look to bring in another goalkeeper.