HARTFORD, Conn. – Hartford Athletic announced on Tuesday the club had signed signed attacking midfielder Marcus Epps ahead of the 2024 USL Championship season. The transaction is pending league and federation approval.

Epps comes to Hartford following a career year at FC Tulsa, where he recorded nine goals and seven assists in 33 appearances. The 28-year-old was commonly deployed on either wing and created chances by attacking defenders with his speed and strength on the ball. His best performance of the 2023 campaign came against Hartford Athletic in the last game of the season, when he recorded a goal and two assists in a 5-2 victory.

“Marcus is an experienced striker who has hit his stride in this league,” said Hartford Athletic CEO Nick Sakiewicz. “He has one of the best career resumes in the Championship and is coming off a phenomenal season. He brings speed and finishing ability to our attack and will be an exciting player for our fans to watch.”

A former MLS SuperDraft pick, Epps spent the 2017 and 2018 seasons with the Philadelphia Union. He made 37 appearances and scored five goals in the top flight of American soccer, while also spending time with former USL Championship club and Union affiliate Bethlehem Steel FC.

Epps has also competed in the Championship for the New York Red Bulls II, Portland Timbers 2, Phoenix Rising FC, San Antonio FC and Memphis 901 FC, making 167 appearances across the regular season and playoffs while recording 32 goals and 20 assists in his career.

Analysis

As Hartford Athletic builds out its new-look roster, Marcus Epps fits the prototype for Head Coach Brendan Burke, for whom he played previously during his time with Bethlehem Steel FC at the start of his career. The attacking midfielder can influence play out wide and this past season showed off his finishing skills in a strong attacking tandem with Phillip Goodrum in Tulsa, resulting in a career-best campaign.

As an attacker, Epps is one of the most aggressive players in the Championship on the dribble. His 49 completed dribbles this past season ranked tied for 10th in the league, while he also produced 29 chances created. His ability to challenge and stretch defenses fits right into the style we’ve seen Burke employ at Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC, and should make a positive impact next season.