Christian Walton: Brighton boss Hyypia eyes loan move for keeper

Walton has represented England at Under-19 and Under-20 level

Brighton & Hove Albion manager Sami Hyypia says young goalkeeper Christian Walton may go out on loan in order to gain first-team experience.

The highly-rated 18-year-old is yet to make his senior club debut but is an England Under-20 international.

"When you are young, you need games. It is very good that he gets experience in the development squad and plays many games," Hyypia told BBC Sussex.

"We have been thinking maybe a short loan deal would be good for him."

Walton joined Brighton's youth set-up from Plymouth Argyle in February 2013 and he signed a new four-year deal at the Amex Stadium this summer.

Hyypia, who took charge of the Seagulls in June, has been impressed by the teenager.

"I think he has all the assets you need as a keeper but he is still young and needs to improve in all the areas," the Finn said.

"With his size as a keeper, everyone understands that if you are tall maybe you are not as quick to go down for lower shots.

"He still needs to work on those kind of things and our goalkeeping coach Antti Niemi is doing a good job with him. I see a good future ahead of him."

Although he is still yet to make his first appearance for the Seagulls, Walton has been named on the bench three times this season.

Former Liverpool defender Hyypia has hinted that Walton may start Wednesday's Capital One Cup tie at Burton ahead of regular number one David Stockdale and experienced back-up Casper Ankergren.

"At the moment he is on a similar level with Casper," Hyypia said.

"If he plays then I trust in him 100% that he will do a good job. We will see what happens on Wednesday."