MK Dons have completed the signing of Hibernian defender Marvin Ekpiteta, as reported by The Edinburgh News.
The centre back moves south in search of regular football.
Warne Delighted With New Addition
MK Dons boss Paul Warne saw his side open their League Two campaign with a disappointing 0-0 home draw against newly promoted Oldham Athletic. Despite a positive display defensively, the former Rotherham United manager is delighted to add Ekpiteta to his squad.
“He’s a big centre-half with pace, he’s aggressive in both boxes, and I just think he’s something the squad needs.”
“I tried to sign him before when he was at Leyton Orient, but he went to Blackpool, and I’ve tracked him ever since. We’re really fortunate to get him over the line!”
Warne believes the 29-year-old brings something his side has previously been lacking, but accepts it won’t be easy for the new man to gain the minutes he craves.
“I think, at times, we need to be stronger, and we need different ways to play different games. It is up to us as staff to see what we are missing and to try to get it.”
“Marvin knows what he is good at, and he knows he has to work hard to get into the team. To get him through is great news for everyone.”
Ekpiteta Happy To Sign On At Stadium MK
After a frustrating season on the fringes of the Hibs first team, the former Leyton Orient man is hopeful of more regular action in Milton Keynes.
“I am happy to be here, I am looking forward to the new challenge ahead. It’s an exciting club to be a part of. I didn’t play as much as I’d have liked to last year, I want to play regular football again.”
“I have played higher, I have played lower, and I know what it takes to push on and up, to get us out of this league.”
“I feel like I bring a lot of experience and some good qualities to the team. The signings the club is making are really positive, so I am happy to be on board!”
According to Hibernian’s Sporting Director Malky, interest in Ekpiteta was high from clubs in England:
“Marvin has a lot of positive attributes, which is why there’s been a lot of interest in him from teams in England.”
“At his age, he wants to play football regularly, and we completely understood that. He’s a good person, and we wish him nothing but the best in his career.”
Writer’s View
With this new addition, Warne’s centre half department is now stacked with players giving the manager plenty of options but also a potential headache.
The manager prefers to play four at the back with two centre halves but could this move prompt a formation change for MK Dons moving forward?
