Josh Walker's permanent move to Scunthorpe United will not go ahead as announced due to FIFA regulations and the Watford midfielder has only joined the Iron on loan.

Walker had been on trial at Scunthorpe for several weeks and the two clubs had agreed terms on a permanent move.

Watford today announced the player had left the club on a free transfer only for Scunthorpe to clarify later that the 22-year-old was now joining on a one-month emergency loan. The Hornets have now changed their web article.

Scunthorpe's website explained: “The midfielder has already played for two clubs this season so under FIFA rules cannot play for a third.

“Walker made two substitute appearances for Watford at the start of the season before joining Stevenage on a standard loan at the end of August where he made seven appearances.

“The current rules state that while a player can register for three clubs during a season he can only play for a maximum two clubs. This rule applies to both permanent signings and standard loans.

“Emergency loans do not count towards the two club rule meaning the player is free to join and play for the Iron on this basis.

“The Iron expect to complete the deal in time for Saturday's game with Colchester United.”

Watford also confirmed the two clubs will continue talks next week over extending his stay until the end of the season, when his contract expires.

Walker has spent most of his time at Vicarage Road out on loan with two brief spells at Stevenage and he finished last season at Northampton, where he made 19 appearance.

He graduated from the Middlesbrough Academy and made his first team debut in May 2006, making 13 appearances for Boro in total. He has previously captained England at every age group from Under-16 to Under-20.