Marvin Hinton: Chelsea defender who made 335 appearances dies age 85 as club pays tribute
A footballer who played for one of the top clubs in England has died at the age of 85.
Marvin Hinton began his professional footballing career in 1957 at Charlton Athletic, forging a reputation as a confident, progressive defender.
In 1963, he got his big move to Chelsea, and spent 13 seasons with the Blues, making 335 appearances in the process. With four goals to his name, he retired in 1976.
During that time, he was part of Chelsea’s FA Cup victory in 1970, helping the club beat Leeds in a replayed final.
Hinton was certainly ahead of his time, as a defender who was comfortable in possession and confident in passing out from the back. Such was his penchant for this that when he watched Chelsea train in 2023, he speculated that in his prime he could slot straight into the squad - and everyone agreed with him.
Posting an obituary online, a spokesperson for Chelsea said: “It is with tremendous sadness that Chelsea Football Club announces the passing yesterday [December 2] of Marvin Hinton.
“Our thoughts are with Marvin’s family and friends at this difficult time.
“Hinton’s all-round quality as a footballer lent itself to playing anywhere in the defence. Left-back, centre-back and sweeper were all positions he played, the last of which he rated his best. That was due to his ability to bring the ball down, take it forward and play.
“After leaving Chelsea in 1976, Hinton had a spell in non-league football at Barnet before retiring.”