Depleted Crewe have boosted their midfield options with the emergency loan signing of Simon Walton from Plymouth. 6-7-10: Sheffield United have signed midfielder Simon Walton on a season-long loan from Plymouth. The 22-year-old spent last season on loan with Crewe in League Two but Blades boss Kevin Blackwell is willing to give Walton another chance to prove himself in the Championship having worked with him during his time in charge at Leeds. Walton made his first-team debut aged 16 after coming through Leeds' academy with future Tottenham and England winger Aaron Lennon. But his career has stuttered since, with unsuccessful permanent moves to Charlton, QPR and Plymouth, and loan spells with Ipswich, Cardiff, Hull and Blackpool. Plymouth, who were relegated to League One last season, have a recall clause in January if they receive an offer for the player, although United have an option to match any bid. Walton can also provide cover in defence and becomes the fifth new arrival at Bramall Lane this summer following the signing of Daniel Bogdanovic, Leon Britton, Johnny Ertl and Steve Simonsen. "I had him at Elland Road but he does seem to have lost his way a little bit," said Blackwell.