Leeds United today strengthened their goalkeeping options by capturing Tony Warner on a one-month loan from Fulham.
The former Cardiff City and Millwall keeper has prevented a potential crisis for Kevin Blackwell by agreeing a short-term stay at Elland Road.
The United boss has a doubt over first-choice Neil Sullivan ahead of tomorrow’s clash with Norwich City, but Warner will provide Blackwell with a suitable replacement if Sullivan fails to recover from a dead leg.
Warner has been with Fulham on a permanent basis since the turn of the year, but he is not expected to play a major role at Craven Cottage this season with both Antti Niemi and Mark Crossley blocking his path.
Warner’s availability alerted Blackwell earlier this week with Sullivan continuing to receive treatment on his injury, and the 34-year-old Liverpudlian has the opportunity to earn a longer deal with United following the departure of perennial reserve Ian Bennett to Sheffield United.
Blackwell said: “We needed a little more quality. I’m hopeful that Neil will be able to play tomorrow. Tony’s got experience and this is a good chance for him to come in and show what he can do.” Warner made over 200 appearances during five years at Millwall, but the keeper’s career has slowed since his move to Cardiff in 2004.
The former Anfield trainee was taken on by Fulham – initially on loan – at the start of last season amid an injury crisis, but Niemi’s arrival in London in January has forced him down the order.
