Hibernian Signs Former Nigeria U20 International Marvin Ekpiteta

Scottish Premiership club Hibernian has officially signed Marvin Ekpiteta, a former Nigeria U20 international and England C defender, on a three year deal. Ekpiteta joined Hibs after his contract with EFL League One side Blackpool expired. The 28 year old central defender, who previously trained with the Flying Eagles in 2013 before the FIFA U20 World Cup, has made significant strides in his career, including a standout season at Blackpool in 2021-2022 where he was named Player of the Year and Players’ Player of the Year.

Ekpiteta played 143 matches for Blackpool, scoring twelve goals and providing four assists. He also served as captain on multiple occasions and scored against Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup’s third round. Hibernian manager David Gray praised Ekpiteta as a big, strong, and athletic defender who will be a valuable asset for the team.

Ekpiteta’s previous clubs include Oxford United, Chelmsford City, Witham Town, Concord Rangers, East Thurrock United, and Leyton Orient before joining Blackpool in July 2020.

Editorial

We applaud Hibernian’s strategic acquisition of Marvin Ekpiteta, whose experience and leadership qualities are poised to bolster the club’s defensive lineup. Ekpiteta’s journey from the Nigerian U20 setup to the English lower leagues, and now to the Scottish Premiership, underscores his resilience and determination. His signing reflects Hibernian’s commitment to strengthening their squad with proven talent capable of making an immediate impact.

Ekpiteta’s tenure at Blackpool was marked by consistent performances and leadership, as evidenced by his accolades during the 2021-2022 season. His ability to contribute both defensively and offensively makes him a versatile player. Standing at six feet four inches, Ekpiteta’s physical presence and athleticism will be crucial in both defensive duels and set-piece situations.

Hibernian’s manager, David Gray, has rightly highlighted Ekpiteta’s attributes that align with the club’s aspirations. His experience in the English Football League, with his leadership skills, will be invaluable as Hibs aim to compete at higher levels in the Scottish Premiership. Ekpiteta’s move also signifies an opportunity for him to continue his development in a new league, bringing fresh perspectives and experiences to his new team.

Ekpiteta’s journey is a testament to the importance of perseverance in professional sports. His career path, from the lower tiers of English football to international recognition, is inspirational. It showcases that with hard work and dedication, players can achieve significant milestones, regardless of the challenges they face.

Hibernian fans can look forward to seeing a robust and dynamic defender in Ekpiteta. His commitment to his new club, combined with his proven track record, promises an exciting season ahead. We believe Ekpiteta will not only strengthen the defence but also become a fan favourite with his performances.

In summary, Marvin Ekpiteta’s signing is a strategic move that highlights Hibernian’s ambition. His experience, leadership, and physical prowess make him a valuable addition to the squad. We are optimistic that Ekpiteta will play a pivotal role in Hibernian’s success in the upcoming seasons.

Did You Know?

• Marvin Ekpiteta began his football career in the youth system at Oxford United before making his way through various English lower league clubs.
• He made his debut for England C in a friendly against Estonia U23s in 2018, reflecting his versatility and adaptability.
• Ekpiteta was instrumental in Blackpool’s promotion to the EFL Championship in the 2020-2021 season.
• Hibernian FC, founded in 1875, is one of the oldest football clubs in Scotland with a rich history in Scottish football.
• The club’s home ground, Easter Road Stadium, has a capacity of over 20,000 and is known for its passionate and loyal fan base.