Career So Far: Marvin Ekpiteta

David Gray added another defender to his ranks with a third signing in the space of a week – with Marvin Ekpiteta becoming the latest recruit to sign on the dotted line.

The 6 ft 4’ centre-back penned a three-year deal with the Club, arriving on a permanent following the expiration of his contract at Blackpool FC.

The English-born defender grew up playing youth football at Oxford United before beginning his pathway climbing up the English Football League structure.

Ekpiteta started his senior career playing in National League South with Chelmsford City before spells at Concord Rangers, and East Thurrock United followed.

In January 2018, Ekpiteta signed for National League side Leyton Orient. The defender was initially loaned back out to East Thurrock as part of the deal but was quickly recalled and played the remainder of the season with the Os.

The defender played a key role in the 2018/19, cementing his place in the starting team - making 40 appearances (39 starts), including six goals – as the Os won promotion and gained promotion to League Two.

Ekpiteta made his League Two debut the following season, playing a further 32 matches and securing his sides safety in the division before joining Blackpool FC in July 2020.

In his first season with the Seasiders, Ekpiteta achieved another promotion helping Blackpool reach the English Championship gaining promotion via the play-offs.

Marvin raised his game in the English Championship, showing his capabilities as a physical defender and captaining Blackpool on several occasions.

During the 2021/22 season, he made 42 appearances in total (41 starts) and was awarded the Player of the Season Award and the Player’s Player of the Season Award at the end of the campaign.

Ekpiteta has been ever present at the back for Blackpool over the last few years, making over 143 appearances and scoring 12 goals during his four years with the Club.

On the international scene, the defender has represented both Nigeria U20s and England C.

Marvin will wear the number 4 shirt and joins new signings Warren O’Hora and Josef Bursik at HTC as we prepare for the 2024/25 campaign!

Ekpiteta's player sponsorship is available for the forthcoming season. To discuss any of our Player Sponsorship Packages, please get in touch with our Commercial Team via commercial@hibernianfc.co.uk.