No-nonsense Walton has made a name already in order to fill the gap left by former crowd favourites Alan Smith and James Milner.
His performances so far have given Blackwell an extra option in midfield. Blackwell said in the Yorkshire Evening Post: "I can't say for certain whether he'll be involved, but we're not scared to play him, there's no doubt about that.
"We're well aware that he has only played two or three games and the most important thing from my point of view is to develop him.
"He will need protecting but, at the same time, he more than acquitted himself well against Valencia and Hibernian. The kid's got talent and he's one for the future."
Blackwell will be reluctant to call on Walton too much this season, but he may be forced to by the depth of the squad which still requires some additions before the season kicks off.