Ipswich Town have swooped for Sunderland's goalkeeping coach Jimmy Walker just four months after he joined the Black Cats.

The former West Ham keeper has linked up with Paul Lambert at Championship side Ipswich for logistical reasons, with his family still being based in Essex.

He's also played for Lambert in the past, making 16 appearances on loan at Colchester United when the former Norwich man was in charge there.

Walker has spent the last two seasons with Lincoln City, but switched to Sunderland in the summer after their relegation to League One. he explained his decision, admitting he left with a heavy heart.

"It was a very difficult decision for me, as I have loved every minute at Sunderland and it's a fantastic club," he was quoted by the Chronicle Live. "Being away from my family in recent months has been challenging so I would like to thank everyone at the club, especially the manager and staff, for their understanding."

"I wish the club and the fans every success for the rest of the season."

45-year-old Walker made his name at Walsall, where he played 406 matches in an eleven-year stay at the club. he later joined West Ham as understudy to Stephen Bywater and caught fans' attentions after saving a Frank Lampard penalty in a 2004 League Cup match.

The Verdict

This is purely a move born out of a logistical need, rather than a desire to move up the divisions. There's a very real chance that Ipswich and Sunderland will swap places in May, but there's nothing other than a need to be closer to home for Walker.

He's an infectious character, larger than life and influential wherever he's been previously. He'll be an important part of Lambert's staff over the coming weeks, keeping morale high and working with the keepers.

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