David Martindale relishing having Marvin Bartley back at Livingston as coach

David Martindale is relishing the prospect of having Marvin Bartley back at Livingston as first-team coach.

The 38-year-old former Bournemouth, Burnley and Hibernian midfielder initially joined the Lions as a player in 2019 and then became assistant boss before leaving to become manager of Queen of the South in 2023.

Bartley – working predominantly as a pundit since departing Queens a year ago – has now been handed the chance to return to West Lothian after previous first-team coach Brian Rice moved into a new role as head of football operations ahead of the club’s return to the William Hill Premiership.

“Brian’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 and be a part of my coaching staff again,” Martindale told the Lions’ official website.

“My relationship with Marv over the years 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 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 (Rice) in the dugout, but having both of these guys at the club really is fantastic for everyone at Livingston.”

Livingston have also re-signed midfielder Macaulay Tait on a season-long loan from Hearts.

Tait, 19, was an ever-present in the second half of last season for Livingston, making 23 appearances as the club won promotion to the Scottish Premiership.