U`s Sign Ex-Leeds Midfielder

The 29-year-old has over 300 Football League appearances to his credit after beginning his career with Leeds United, where he was capped by England at under-16, 17 and under-19 level.

He went on to play for Plymouth, Argyle Hartlepool United, Stevenage and Crawley Town as well as having loan spells at Ipswich Town, Hull City and Crewe Alexandra, and last year returned to his native Yorkshire with Toolstation Northern Counties East Leaguers Garforth Town and latterly Guiseley AFC, for whom he played in both league games against Sutton last season.

Manager Paul Doswell was pleased to get Walton on board. He told the club`s official website: “He’s someone I’ve always admired since watching him at Crawley. He’s a quality holding midfielder whose equally comfortable at centre- half. He has a great passing range, will bring a winning mentality, and provides another leader in our dressing room. He trained this morning and looked really good, and you can see the desire in him to do well.

“We were fortunate to be able to sign Simon as he’s moving back to Ascot to be closer to his young daughter, so the geography worked in our favour in his decision to sign.”

Walton was also delighted to have made the move: “As soon as I knew Paul was interested it was a very easy decision to make. Sutton were a quality side last season, and their reputation amongst other teams in the league was very good. It’s a great move for my family as well, and I’m really looking forward to help the team keep progressing. I had offers from league clubs further north, but this opportunity is right for me on all levels, and I can’t wait to get started”.