We’re delighted to announce the return of Marvin Bartley to the club, who joins our backroom staff as Men’s first-team coach.

An incredibly popular figure in West Lothian since he first joined in May 2019, Marvin returns to strengthen our first-team coaching staff ahead of the Premiership campaign. Signed initially from Hibernian, he made 77 appearances in amber and black across two seasons, the latter of which he served as club captain, leading the Lions to the Betfred Cup Final and a place in the Premiership top six.

In the summer of 2021, after calling time on his playing career, he was named as assistant manager to David Martindale. He played an integral role off the pitch as we consolidated our place in the top flight, narrowly missing out on a top-half finish that season.

He departed to take over the reigns at League One outfit Queen of the South in January 2023, narrowly missing out on a play-off spot that season before a mid-table finish the following campaign. He returns to the Home of the Set Fare Arena as we prepare for the upcoming season, working alongside David Martindale, Neil Hastings and the rest of the backroom team.

Men’s first-team manager David Martindale said, “Chipper’s change in role left a void in the coaching team and it was a no brainer to speak to Marv and see if he would like to come back be a part of my coaching staff again.

“My relationship with Marv over the years since has only grown ever since the day we signed him from Hibs. I have huge respect for him as both a person, and as a coach.

“We have always kept in touch so I knew he was itching to get back on the grass and I’m just delighted we can get him back to the club.

“It’s a hugely positive signing for the myself and the club and I’m sure the players will really look forward to working with him.

“I feel bringing Marv back really softens the blow of losing Chipper in the dugout, but having both of these guys at the club really is fantastic for everyone at Livingston FC.

“There’s been a good bit of movement coaching wise now with Chipper taking up his new role, Marvin coming back as first-team coach and George Cairns coming in as the academy director – and that’s really all down to the board trying to support & progress the footballing department across the full club. They have shown a real intent to try progress the club on and off the park and for that I am extremely thankful.

“On that same note, a big welcome to Craig Joyce who has come on board to lead the women’s first-team and I’d like to wish him and the team well for the season ahead too.”

Welcome back, Marv!

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