Hibernian sign midfielder Marvin Bartley

Marvin Bentley has agreed to join Hibs. Picture: Pete Norton/Getty

Head coach Alan Stubbs has been keen to continue strengthening his squad, admitting the need to add a “bit of steel” in the middle of the park following the departures of former skipper Liam Craig and Scott Robertson.

At 29, Bartley will bring a wealth of experience, the 6ft 3in player having previously played for English Premier League newcomers Bournemouth, Burnley and, latterly, Leyton Orient.

After agreeing a deal subject to international clearance, Bartley said: “I’m delighted to sign for Hibs and I’m really excited about what the club can achieve.

“There is a positive vibe around the place ahead of the new season and I’ve been really impressed with everything I’ve seen – from the set-up at the training centre to the manager’s vision for the future.

“I’ve completely bought into that vision and I’m looking forward to playing my part in his plans to drive the club forward and earn promotion.

“This is the next chapter in my career and I will be aiming to use the experience I’ve got to help the team and to make sure it’s a season to remember.”

Stubbs added: “We’re delighted to be able to add Marvin to the squad – his experience, energy and attributes will benefit the team.

“We were looking to bring in another midfielder and Marvin fits the bill – he will be an important signing for us.”

Reading-born Bartley began his career with his hometown club but spent four years playing non-league football, combining his semi-professional career with installing double-glazing before joining Bournemouth where he made 130 appearances.

Highly-rated by Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe, Bartley switched to Burnley in 2011 for a reported £350,000 two weeks after Howe had become manager of the Clarets. He played 72 times for the Turf Moor outfit before moving, initially on loan, to Leyton Orient, the deal being made permanent in January of last year.

Hibs’ move for Bartley pre-dated the injury suffered by Danny Handling during Tuesday night’s friendly against Berwick Rangers, Stubbs’ worst fears for the Scotland Under-21 midfielder realised as a scan revealed he’d torn his anterior cruciate ligament and now faces a minimum of six months out of action.