Ex-Hatters goalkeeper returns to Tannadice following Preston exit

Former Luton Town goalkeeper Jack Walton has returned to Scottish Premier League side Dundee United from Championship outfit Preston North End, agreeing a three year deal at Tannadice.

The 28-year-old had moved to Kenilworth Road back in January 2023 from Barnsley, but didn’t ever play a senior game for the Hatters, having two loan spells north of the border with Dundee United. He quickly cemented himself as a fans’ favourite, playing every single competitive minute available during a remarkable Championship-winning season, as his tally of 19 clean sheets in 36 league outings, breaking Billy Thomson’s long-standing club record for shutouts in a single campaign.

He was then back for the 2024-25 campaign, and once again became a mainstay of Jim Goodwin’s side, helping the club secure European football in their first season back in the Scottish Premiership. Walton left Luton last summer to move to Preston, playing five times for the Lilywhites and also turning out once for League Two promotion-winners Cambridge United when penning an emergency loan.

Speaking to the club’s official website about his new signing, Goodwin said: “Jack was exceptional for us across the two seasons he was here and bringing him back to the football club was something we were extremely keen to make happen. His performances, consistency and leadership qualities made him one of the standout goalkeepers in the country during his time here previously. He has a real connection with the supporters and understands exactly what is expected when representing Dundee United.

“He brings calmness and authority to the defensive unit, while his professionalism and mentality set a fantastic example around the training ground every single day. Importantly, he already knows the standards and expectations we have as a group. He was a massive part of the success we achieved together and we believe he will continue to play an important role moving forward.”

Walton himself added: “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.”