NEWPORT County AFC have signed their third defender of the summer with the arrival of centre-back Marvel Ekpiteta on a two-year deal.

The 23-year-old, who can also play as a full-back on either side of the defence, makes the move from National League South outfit Hungerford Town.

As captain of the Crusaders, he picked up the manager’s player, supporters’ player and players’ player of the season awards last season after registering 45 appearances.

Ekpiteta started his career alongside twin brother Marvin in the youth set-up at Oxford United, while he also had a spell at Stevenage, Hayes, Bishops Stortford and Chelmsford City.

The London-born twins could face each other in Sky Bet League Two next season as Marvin plays for newly-promoted Leyton Orient.

After finalising the deal, Marvel said: "I'm buzzing to get started. I am really looking forward to the challenge ahead and I can't wait for pre-season.

“I see myself as a leader, I love defending and I try and get on the ball as much as possible.

“I join the club fresh from Hungerford Town where I have enjoyed my best season.

“I'm so happy now that I have been rewarded with a chance to play in the EFL."

County boss Michael Flynn added: "Marvel will add to the competition for places. Marvel has done very well at Hungerford and he caught the attention of quite a few clubs.

“His twin brother is playing at Leyton Orient and I'm hoping he will do just as well as him.

“We’ve got a really good prospect for the future in Marvel and I think he will have a good career as long as he keeps learning."

Ekpiteta joins Lazar Stojsavljevic and Kyle Howkins as new defenders to sign for the Exiles this summer.