Christian Walton is likely to be pitched straight into a local derby after joining Plymouth Argyle on loan.

The third-choice Albion keeper has linked up with his previous club until January 3.

He is on standby for a debut in the eagerly-awaited Devon duel with Exeter City at Home Park on Saturday.

Walton was eager to secure a loan deal as soon as possible after recovering from a groin injury and playing three games for the Seagulls’ under-21 side.

He had targeted League One – but a switch to the League Two leaders also fits the bill.

The 20-year-old, who joined Albion from the Pilgrims in 2013, heads to Home Park after an injury to first choice keeper Luke McCormick.

He will compete with James Bittner for the starting spot.

Albion boss Chris Hughton said: "This is a great opportunity for Christian to play first team football and I am sure it will be a great experience for him at a club he knows well.

"His previous loan (at Bury) was cut short by injury. Now he is fully recovered, has played some matches for our under-21s and has been away with England's under-21s, so it is a good time for Christian to go back out on loan.

"Plymouth are enjoying an excellent season under Derek Adams, and this is a great chance for Christian to continue his development."

Walton played six times for Bury earlier this season and has also made four appearances for Albion's first-team, keeping clean sheets in two matches last season.

Saturday's derby is likely to attract a crowd of 14,000 and could see Argyle increase their five-point lead in the race for the title.