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Adrian Mariappa
View on Wikipediafrom Wikipedia
Adrian Joseph Mariappa (born 3 October 1986) is a professional footballer who plays as a defender for Isthmian League Premier Division side St Albans City. Born in England, he represents the Jamaica national team. He is also currently assistant coach at Watford under-21s.
Key Information
He progressed through Watford's youth academy and started playing for the first team in the 2005–06 season. Although primarily a centre-back, he spent some of his early professional career at right back due to competition for places in the middle. In his first spell at Watford, he made 248 first-team appearances, including 19 in the Premier League. This included a run of 114 consecutive league appearances, the fourth-longest streak in Watford's history. Mariappa captained Watford at under-18, reserve and first-team levels, and was the club's vice-captain in his final few years at Vicarage Road.
Mariappa accepted his first call-up to Jamaica's international team in May 2012.[5] He won his first cap against Guyana later that month, and transferred to Premier League side Reading in July 2012. He made 29 league appearances for the club before joining Premier League side Crystal Palace in September 2013, following Reading's relegation to the Championship. Returning to Watford before the 2016–17 season, Mariappa made seven league appearances that season.
Club career
[edit]Watford
[edit].jpg)
Born in Harrow, Mariappa joined Watford's youth system at the age of eight. At the age of 15 he was initially told he would be released by the club. While in the Watford academy Mariappa trained with athletics and basketball clubs to improve his sprinting and jumping techniques.[6] He captained the club's under-18 side during their FA Youth Cup quarter-final against Tottenham Hotspur,[7] and later captained the reserve team.[8]
Mariappa was selected as an unused substitute in Watford's last league game of the 2004–05 season.[9] After signing his first professional contract with the club that summer,[10] Mariappa made his first team debut in a League Cup match against Notts County on 23 August 2005, playing 90 minutes in a 3–1 Watford win.[11][12] He made another cup start against Wigan Athletic in the 3rd round. During the 2005–06 season he also made three league appearances, including a clean sheet in his first league start, against Hull City on the final day of the regular season.[13] Mariappa did not play any of Watford's play-off games, but was an unused substitute in the final, in which the team won promotion to the Premier League.[14]
Watford started their 2006–07 Premier League campaign at Everton, with Mariappa starting in central defence in place of first-team regular Jay DeMerit. He was substituted at half-time, and, aside from a League Cup appearance against Accrington Stanley, did not make another first-team appearance until December 2006, when in an away match at Newcastle United he came on for the injured James Chambers at right-back. He continued in that position, playing regularly for the rest of the season.[13]
With Watford back in the Championship for 2007–08, Mariappa found himself largely on the substitute bench, making 13 league starts and 3 in other competitions, as Watford again reached the play-offs.[13] By contrast, he started 45 games in all competitions in the 2008–09 season, under the management of Aidy Boothroyd, Malky Mackay and latterly Brendan Rodgers, and scored his first senior goal for Watford in a 3–1 defeat at Wolves on 31 January 2009.[13][15] At the end of the season he signed a two-year extension to his contract.[16]
In the absence of injured captain Jay DeMerit, Mariappa skippered Watford for the first time on 12 September 2009, in a 1–0 victory at Vicarage Road against Barnsley.[17] He retained the captaincy during DeMerit's absence, and scored his second senior goal in October 2009, on his 100th professional appearance.[18] Watford finished the 2009–10 season 16th in the Championship; Mariappa was the only player to start each of the club's games in the Football League, FA Cup and League Cup.[19][20] 2010–11 followed a similar pattern to the previous campaign; Mariappa started every game for which he was available,[21] and was one of Watford's six scorers in the team's 6–1 away win against Millwall.[22] He was also appointed as the club's vice captain during the season.[21] However, Mariappa was sent off for the first time in his career on 19 March 2011, in a 2–1 defeat to Middlesbrough.[13] The resulting suspension ended Mariappa's run of 113 consecutive league appearances, the fourth highest in Watford's history.[21]
Mariappa continued to play in the 2011–12 season under new manager Sean Dyche. He was the focus of transfer speculation during the January 2012 transfer window when Watford received a number of bids for him from Premier League clubs. Three bids from Newcastle United were rejected;[23][24] an offer from Wigan Athletic was accepted, but Mariappa rejected a move.[25] He stayed at the club until the following summer, and his good form saw players and fans vote him 2011–12 Watford Player of the Season.[26]
Reading
[edit].png)
On 17 July 2012, it was announced that Mariappa had joined Reading on a three-year deal for an undisclosed fee.[27] Media estimates of the transfer fee ranged from £2m to £3m.[28][29]
Crystal Palace
[edit]Mariappa signed for newly promoted Premier League club Crystal Palace on a three-year contract for an undisclosed fee on 2 September 2013.[30]
At the end of his three-year deal, it was confirmed on 13 June 2016 that he would be released by Crystal Palace on expiry of his contract.[31]
Return to Watford
[edit]On 30 August 2016, Mariappa re-joined Watford on a three-year deal after a four-year absence.[32] He made his 250th Watford start against West Bromwich Albion in a 1–0 win on 3 March 2018, winning Man of the Match for his performance.[33]
Bristol City
[edit]Following a defensive injury crisis, on 11 November 2020 Bristol City signed Mariappa on a short term deal.[34] On 14 May 2021 he was released by the club at the end of his contract.[35]
Macarthur FC
[edit]On 29 November 2021, A-League Men side Macarthur FC announced that they had signed Mariappa.[36] He made his debut against Western Sydney Wanderers on 11 December 2021 in a 0-2 win as the first Jamaican player to play in the Australian national league.
Burton Albion
[edit]On 7 October 2022, he returned to England to sign a short term deal with League One side Burton Albion.[37]
On 18 January 2023, Mariappa left the club after his short-term deal expired.[38]
Salford City
[edit]On 23 March 2023, Mariappa signed for EFL League Two club Salford City on a short-term contract until the end of the season.[39] On 10 July 2023, Mariappa signed a new one-year contract.[40] On 21 May 2024, the club announced he would be released when the contract expired.[41]
Wealdstone
[edit]On 27 June 2024, Mariappa agreed to sign for National League side Wealdstone,[42] where he was appointed as captain.[43] On 23 June 2025, it was announced that Mariappa had left the club.[44]
St Albans City
[edit]On 30 October 2025, he signed for Isthmian League Premier Division club St Albans City.[45]
International career
[edit]Mariappa is eligible for the Fiji national team through his Fijian father.[46][47] In late 2010 he was named by the Fiji Football Association in the 50-member national training squad to prepare for the 2011 Pacific Games in New Caledonia, but did not take up the place.[48]
Both of Mariappa's maternal grandparents are from Jamaica. In 2012 he accepted a call up to the Jamaica squad, for a friendly against Guyana.[5] His first match in an international competition came on 9 June 2012, in a 2–1 World Cup qualifying win against Guatemala.[49]
Coaching career
[edit]In August 2025, Mariappa returned to former club Watford in the role of under-21 assistant coach.[50]
Personal life
[edit]Mariappa is of Fijian (paternal) and Jamaican (maternal) descent.[46][5] As of March 2019,[update] Mariappa had been a vegan.[6]
Career statistics
[edit]Club
[edit]- As of match played 5 May 2025
| Club | Season | League | FA Cup | League Cup | Other | Total | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Division | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | ||
| Watford | 2005–06[51] | Championship | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 5 | 0 |
| 2006–07[52] | Premier League | 19 | 0 | 5 | 0 | 1 | 0 | — | 25 | 0 | ||
| 2007–08[53] | Championship | 25 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 1[a] | 0 | 30 | 0 | |
| 2008–09[54] | Championship | 39 | 1 | 3 | 0 | 5 | 0 | — | 47 | 1 | ||
| 2009–10[55] | Championship | 46 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 0 | — | 49 | 1 | ||
| 2010–11[56] | Championship | 45 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 0 | — | 49 | 1 | ||
| 2011–12[57] | Championship | 39 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 0 | — | 42 | 1 | ||
| Total | 216 | 4 | 15 | 0 | 15 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 247 | 4 | ||
| Reading | 2012–13[58] | Premier League | 29 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 0 | — | 32 | 1 | |
| 2013–14[59] | Championship | 0 | 0 | — | 1 | 0 | — | 1 | 0 | |||
| Total | 29 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 0 | — | 33 | 1 | |||
| Crystal Palace | 2013–14[59] | Premier League | 24 | 1 | 2 | 0 | — | — | 26 | 1 | ||
| 2014–15[60] | Premier League | 12 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 0 | — | 16 | 0 | ||
| 2015–16[61] | Premier League | 3 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 3 | 0 | — | 7 | 0 | ||
| Total | 39 | 1 | 5 | 0 | 5 | 0 | — | 49 | 1 | |||
| Watford | 2016–17[62] | Premier League | 7 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | — | 8 | 0 | |
| 2017–18[63] | Premier League | 28 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 1 | — | 30 | 1 | ||
| 2018–19[64] | Premier League | 26 | 0 | 4 | 0 | 2 | 0 | — | 32 | 0 | ||
| 2019–20[65] | Premier League | 20 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 0 | — | 23 | 0 | ||
| Total | 81 | 0 | 7 | 0 | 5 | 1 | — | 93 | 1 | |||
| Bristol City | 2020–21[66] | Championship | 25 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | — | 27 | 0 | |
| Macarthur FC | 2021–22 | A-League Men | 19 | 3 | 0 | 0 | — | — | 19 | 3 | ||
| Burton Albion | 2022–23[67] | League One | 8 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2[b] | 0 | 12 | 1 |
| Salford City | 2022–23[67] | League Two | 7 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2[c] | 0 | 9 | 0 |
| 2023-24[68] | League Two | 32 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 2[b] | 0 | 38 | 0 | |
| Total | 39 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 4 | 0 | 47 | 0 | ||
| Wealdstone | 2024-25[69] | National League | 41 | 0 | 2 | 0 | — | 0 | 0 | 43 | 0 | |
| Career total | 497 | 10 | 36 | 0 | 30 | 1 | 7 | 0 | 570 | 11 | ||
- ^ Appearance in Championship play-offs
- ^ a b Appearance(s) in FA Trophy
- ^ Appearance(s) in League Two play-offs
International
[edit]- As of 30 March 2022[70]
| National team | Year | Apps | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jamaica | 2012 | 6 | 0 |
| 2013 | 9 | 0 | |
| 2014 | 4 | 0 | |
| 2015 | 16 | 1 | |
| 2016 | 7 | 0 | |
| 2018 | 1 | 0 | |
| 2019 | 6 | 0 | |
| 2021 | 9 | 0 | |
| 2022 | 6 | 0 | |
| Total | 64 | 1 | |
- Scores and results list Jamaica's goal tally first.[70]
| No. | Date | Venue | Opponent | Score | Result | Competition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 4 September 2015 | Independence Park, Kingston, Jamaica |  Nicaragua |
2–3 | 2–3 | 2018 FIFA World Cup qualification |
Honours
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ "Premier League clubs publish 2019/20 released lists". Premier League. 26 June 2020. Retrieved 12 July 2020.
- ^ Hugman, Barry J., ed. (2009). The PFA Footballers' Who's Who 2009–10. Mainstream Publishing. ISBN 978-1-84596-474-0.
- ^ "Adrian Mariappa". WatfordFC. Archived from the original on 2 January 2020. Retrieved 16 January 2018.
- ^ "Profiles:Adrian Mariappa". BBC Sport. Retrieved 31 January 2012.
- ^ a b c Smith, Frank (14 May 2012). "Watford duo called up by Jamaica". Watford Observer. Retrieved 14 May 2012.
- ^ a b "Watford's Adrian Mariappa: 'I can't see myself going back to eating meat'". The Guardian. 14 March 2019. Retrieved 14 March 2019.
- ^ "Watford Yth 0–2 Tottenham Yth"[permanent dead link]. Watford F.C. 17 March 2005. Retrieved 17 April 2012.
- ^ "Watford 2 Aldershot 1" Archived 15 May 2012 at the Wayback Machine. Watford F.C. 21 August 2007. Retrieved 17 April 2012.
- ^ "Profiles:Adrian Mariappa". Watford F.C. Archived from the original on 24 November 2009. Retrieved 28 October 2009.
- ^ "Squad rebuilding starts" Archived 26 August 2012 at the Wayback Machine. Watford F.C. 5 May 2005. Retrieved 17 April 2012.
- ^ "Adrian Mariappa handed new Watford deal". BBC Sport. 28 January 2011. Retrieved 17 April 2012.
- ^ "Academy Trio's debut delight". Watford F.C. 24 August 2005. Archived from the original on 12 March 2012. Retrieved 28 October 2009.
- ^ a b c d e "Adrian Mariappa:All time playing career". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Archived from the original on 8 October 2009. Retrieved 28 October 2009.
- ^ a b "Leeds 0–3 Watford". BBC Sport. 21 May 2006. Retrieved 19 May 2019.
- ^ "Wolves 3–1 Watford". BBC. 31 January 2009. Retrieved 1 September 2009.
- ^ "Mariappa deal is signed and sealed". Watford F.C. 14 May 2009. Archived from the original on 12 March 2012. Retrieved 28 October 2009.
- ^ "Watford 1–0 Barnsley". Watford F.C. 12 September 2009. Archived from the original on 27 September 2009. Retrieved 28 October 2009.
- ^ Smith, Frank (30 October 2009). "Watford skipper backs Lloyd Doyley to lift roof off Vicarage Road". Watford Observer. pp. 70–71. Retrieved 17 April 2012.
- ^ "Watford: Player appearances". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 17 April 2012.
- ^ Watford 2009–2010: Results" Archived 13 April 2012 at the Wayback Machine. Statto.com. Tony Brown. Retrieved 17 April 2012.
- ^ a b c "Talksport Transfer Spotlight: facts, stats and video of Arsenal and Newcastle target Adrian Mariappa" Archived 2 February 2012 at the Wayback Machine. Talksport. 30 January 2012. Retrieved 17 April 2012.
- ^ "Millwall 1–6 Watford". BBC Sport. 18 September 2010. Retrieved 17 April 2012.
- ^ "Newcastle in final bid for Watford's Adrian Mariappa, says Alan Pardew". The Guardian. London. 31 January 2012.
- ^ "Newcastle United boss denies claims low bid aimed to unsettle Watford defender Adrian Mariappa". This Is Local London. 26 January 2012. Archived from the original on 5 May 2013. Retrieved 6 February 2012.
- ^ "Mariappa rejects Wigan chance". Sky Sports. Retrieved 17 April 2012.
- ^ a b Matthews, Anthony (28 April 2012). "Mariappa wins Player of the Season". Watford Observer. Retrieved 30 April 2012. Full article printed in the Watford Observer. p. 62. 27 April 2012.
- ^ "Mariappa signs from Watford". 18 July 2012. Archived from the original on 19 July 2012. Retrieved 19 July 2012.
- ^ Smith, Frank (17 July 2012). "Reading confirm Mariappa signing". Watford Observer. Retrieved 19 July 2012.
- ^ Fordham, Jonny (16 July 2012). "Adrian Mariappa set to join Reading FC in time for Portugal". Reading Post. Retrieved 30 September 2013.
- ^ "Transfer deadline day: Adrian Mariappa signs for Crystal Palace". BBC Sport. 2 September 2013. Retrieved 2 September 2013.
- ^ "Six Players Released By Crystal Palace". cpfc.co.uk. 13 June 2016. Retrieved 20 June 2016.
- ^ "Return Of The Mapps". Watford F.C. 30 August 2016. Archived from the original on 11 September 2016. Retrieved 30 August 2016.
- ^ "Mariappa "Massive For Us"". Watford F.C. 3 March 2018. Archived from the original on 5 March 2018. Retrieved 5 March 2018.
- ^ "Bristol City sign former Watford defender on free transfer". www.bbc.co.uk. 11 November 2020. Retrieved 11 November 2020.
- ^ "Bristol City announce Retained List". Bristol City. 14 May 2021. Retrieved 18 July 2021.
- ^ "Adrian Mariappa joins the Bulls". Macarthur FC. 29 November 2021. Retrieved 29 November 2021.
- ^ bbc.co.uk Adrian Mariappa: Ex-Watford defender joins Burton Albion on short-term deal, BBC Sport, 7 October 2022
- ^ https://www.burtonalbionfc.co.uk/news/2023/january/1801-departures/, ADRIAN MARIAPPA AND TYLER ONYANGO DEPART BURTON ALBION, Burton Albion, 18 January 2023
- ^ Blackett, Tom (26 March 2023). "Adrian arrives to aid Ammies". The Football League Paper. Retrieved 9 April 2023.
- ^ "New Contract for Adrian Mariappa". Salford City FC. 10 July 2023. Retrieved 24 February 2025.
- ^ "Salford City: Mariappa heads exit list from League Two strugglers". BBC Sport. 21 May 2024. Retrieved 21 May 2024.
- ^ "Stones sign former Premier League star Adrian Mariappa". www.wealdstone-fc.com. 27 June 2024. Retrieved 1 July 2024.
- ^ "Latics vs. Wealdstone". Oldham Athletic F.C. 13 December 2024. Retrieved 23 June 2025.
- ^ @WealdstoneFC (23 June 2025). "We can announce that defender Adrian Mariappa has departed Wealdstone. We thank Adrian for his professionalism and leadership last season and wish him the best of luck for the future!" (Tweet) – via Twitter.
- ^ "Mariappa is a Saint!". www.stalbanscityfc.com. 30 October 2025. Retrieved 31 October 2025.
- ^ a b "Star with Fijian roots sees red" Archived 3 May 2014 at the Wayback Machine. Oceania Football Confederation. 22 March 2011. Retrieved 17 April 2012.
- ^ "VII. Eligibility to play for association teams". FIFA. May 2008. Retrieved 17 April 2012.
- ^ "English defender in national squad". The Fiji Times Online. 25 December 2010. Archived from the original on 6 October 2014. Retrieved 24 July 2011.
- ^ "Jamaica: A. Mariappa". Soccerway. Retrieved 19 July 2012.
- ^ "Academy: Mariappa Returns & New Role For Gosling". www.watfordfc.com. 6 August 2025. Retrieved 6 August 2025.
- ^ "Games played by Adrian Mariappa in 2005/2006". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 5 December 2013.
- ^ "Games played by Adrian Mariappa in 2006/2007". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 5 December 2013.
- ^ "Games played by Adrian Mariappa in 2007/2008". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 5 December 2013.
- ^ "Games played by Adrian Mariappa in 2008/2009". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 5 December 2013.
- ^ "Games played by Adrian Mariappa in 2009/2010". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 5 December 2013.
- ^ "Games played by Adrian Mariappa in 2010/2011". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 5 December 2013.
- ^ "Games played by Adrian Mariappa in 2011/2012". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 5 December 2013.
- ^ "Games played by Adrian Mariappa in 2012/2013". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 5 December 2013.
- ^ a b "Games played by Adrian Mariappa in 2013/2014". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 5 December 2013.
- ^ "Games played by Adrian Mariappa in 2014/2015". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 1 September 2014.
- ^ "Games played by Adrian Mariappa in 2015/2016". Soccerbase. Retrieved 1 September 2014.
- ^ "Games played by Adrian Mariappa in 2016/2017". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 8 April 2017.
- ^ "Games played by Adrian Mariappa in 2017/2018". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 14 May 2018.
- ^ "Games played by Adrian Mariappa in 2018/2019". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 20 January 2019.
- ^ "Games played by Adrian Mariappa in 2019/2020". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 31 October 2019.
- ^ "Games played by Adrian Mariappa in 2020/2021". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 26 December 2020.
- ^ a b "Games played by Adrian Mariappa in 2022/2023". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 19 April 2023.
- ^ "Games played by Adrian Mariappa in 2023/2024". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 12 April 2025.
- ^ "Games played by Adrian Mariappa in 2024/2025". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 12 April 2025.
- ^ a b "Adrian Mariappa". National Football Teams. Benjamin Strack-Zimmermann. Retrieved 5 December 2013.
- ^ McNulty, Phil (18 May 2019). "Manchester City 6–0 Watford". BBC Sport. Retrieved 18 May 2019.
- ^ McNulty, Phil (21 May 2016). "Crystal Palace 1–2 Manchester United". BBC Sport. Retrieved 19 May 2019.
- ^ "Jamaica 1–3 Mexico". BBC Sport. 27 July 2015.
- ^ Harrington, Anna (20 May 2022). "ALM young guns get shot against Barcelona". The Canberra Times. Retrieved 20 May 2022.
External links
[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Adrian Mariappa.
- Adrian Mariappa profile at Crystal Palace F.C.
- Adrian Mariappa profile at the Jamaica Football Federation
- Adrian Mariappa at Soccerbase
- Adrian Mariappa at National-Football-Teams.com
- Adrian Mariappa at Premier League (archived)
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Adrian Mariappa
View on Grokipediafrom Grokipedia
Adrian Joseph Mariappa (born 3 October 1986) is a Jamaican professional footballer who plays as a defender for St Albans City in the National League South.[1][2][3]
Born in Harrow, England, Mariappa rose through the youth ranks at Watford, where he made his professional debut in 2005 and went on to make 340 appearances across two spells with the club (2005–2012 and 2016–2020), including 19 in the Premier League during their promotion-winning 2005–06 season and a run of 114 consecutive league games.[4][1] He transferred to Reading in 2012 for an undisclosed fee, making 29 league appearances in the Premier League before moving to Crystal Palace in 2013, where he played 49 times and contributed to their survival in the top flight.[4][5] Later career moves included Bristol City (2020–2021), a stint in Australia with Macarthur FC (2021–2022), Burton Albion (2022–2023), Salford City (2023–2024), and Wealdstone (2024–2025), before joining St Albans City on 30 October 2025 ahead of an FA Cup tie against his former club Burton Albion.[2][6][3]
Internationally, Mariappa opted to represent Jamaica—despite being eligible for England—debuting in a 2012 friendly against Guyana and earning 72 caps with 1 goal by his retirement from international duty in 2023.[7] He featured prominently for the Reggae Boyz at the CONCACAF Gold Cup in 2015 and 2021, helping the team reach the final in 2015 and the quarter-finals in 2021.[8] In recent years, Mariappa has transitioned into coaching, serving as an assistant for Watford's under-21 team while continuing to play at a semi-professional level, and he graduated from the Professional Footballers' Association Business School in September 2025.[9][10]
Note: Figures are for domestic league matches only; cup and playoff appearances add approximately 110 apps and 1 goal across all competitions.
Club career
Watford
Adrian Mariappa was born on 3 October 1986 in Harrow, London. He joined Watford's youth academy at the age of eight in 1994, progressing through the various age groups and eventually captaining the under-18 team. Mariappa signed his first professional contract with the club in the summer of 2005, marking the transition from youth prospect to senior squad member. Mariappa made his first-team debut on 23 August 2005 in the League Cup first round, starting and playing the full 90 minutes in Watford's 3–1 victory over Notts County at Vicarage Road. His league debut followed on 14 February 2006, coming on as a substitute in a 2–1 defeat to Leeds United. During the 2005–06 Championship season, he recorded five appearances across all competitions, primarily as a centre-back providing defensive depth. Mariappa contributed to Watford's promotion campaign that year, serving as an unused substitute in the play-off semi-final second leg against Crystal Palace and the final against Leeds United, which Watford won 3–0 to secure Premier League promotion. The team finished third in the regular season, and Mariappa's emerging role helped solidify the defensive options under manager Aidy Boothroyd. In the subsequent 2006–07 Premier League season, he established himself as a regular starter, making 37 appearances and demonstrating strong defensive contributions with his positioning and tackling. By the end of the 2006–07 season, Mariappa had amassed 42 first-team appearances for Watford, including notable performances in key matches such as the 1–1 draw at Wigan Athletic on 23 September 2006, where he helped maintain a solid backline. There were no early loan spells during this foundational phase, as he remained with the senior squad to build experience. At the conclusion of the campaign, he signed a two-year contract extension, affirming his importance to the club. During this period, Mariappa also earned youth international caps for England.Reading
Mariappa transferred to Reading from Watford on 17 July 2012 for a fee estimated at £2.5 million, signing a three-year contract ahead of the club's return to the Premier League. His successful tenure at Watford, where he had become a reliable defender with over 200 appearances, fueled expectations that he would anchor Reading's backline in the top flight. Mariappa made an immediate impact, starting in Reading's Premier League opener against Stoke City on 18 August 2012, which ended in a 1–1 draw at the Madejski Stadium. However, the season proved challenging for both the player and the team as Reading adapted to the demands of the Premier League, facing defensive vulnerabilities and a tough schedule that contributed to an inconsistent campaign. Despite these hurdles, Mariappa featured regularly, starting all 29 of his league appearances and logging 2,610 minutes, though injuries to teammates and the team's overall struggles limited opportunities for a settled defensive unit. He scored his sole goal for Reading in a 1–2 away defeat to Stoke City on 9 February 2013, heading in a corner in the 83rd minute. Reading's relegation to the Championship at the end of the 2012–13 season marked the end of Mariappa's spell with the club, where he made 37 appearances across all competitions and contributed one goal. He departed for Crystal Palace on 2 September 2013 in a transfer for an undisclosed fee reported around £2.5 million.Crystal Palace
Adrian Mariappa signed for Crystal Palace from Reading on a three-year deal for an undisclosed fee on 2 September 2013, shortly after Reading's relegation from the Premier League. The versatile defender, capable of playing at right-back or centre-back, provided depth to Ian Holloway's squad during their return to the top flight. Mariappa quickly established himself in the Premier League, making 24 appearances and scoring his first top-flight goal—a header from a Joel Ward cross—in a 1-4 home defeat to Fulham on 21 October 2013. Under subsequent managers Tony Pulis and Alan Pardew, he contributed to Palace's survival in the division, featuring in 39 Premier League matches overall across three seasons and helping secure mid-table finishes, including 10th place in 2014-15. His defensive solidity was evident in key clearances and blocks, such as during a 1-0 victory over Everton in August 2015, where he partnered Scott Dann effectively at centre-back. A standout moment came on 3 May 2015, when Mariappa scored a dramatic 90th-minute equaliser—a header from Jason Puncheon's corner—in a 1-1 draw against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, inadvertently clinching the Premier League title for the visitors on the final day. The following season, he played a supporting role in Palace's memorable FA Cup campaign, appearing in five matches en route to the final, including a substitute appearance in the 2-1 semi-final win over Watford. He entered the Wembley final against Manchester United as a 90th-minute replacement for Dann, though Palace lost 2-1 after extra time. His contract expired at the end of the 2015-16 season, and he was released by the club on 13 June 2016 after 52 total appearances and two goals across all competitions.Return to Watford
After leaving Crystal Palace as a free agent, Mariappa rejoined his boyhood club Watford on 30 August 2016, signing a three-year contract motivated by his deep loyalty to the club where he had developed from the youth ranks. During his second spell from 2016 to 2020, Mariappa provided defensive stability in the Premier League, making 93 appearances across all competitions and forming key partnerships, notably with Craig Cathcart at centre-back. He featured regularly in the 2017–18 and 2018–19 seasons, contributing to Watford's mid-table finishes, including a standout performance where he earned Man of the Match in a 1–0 victory over West Bromwich Albion on 3 March 2018, marking his 250th start for the club. His experience from helping Crystal Palace secure promotion to the Premier League in 2013 proved valuable in maintaining defensive solidity during Watford's top-flight campaigns. Mariappa's reliability saw him sign a two-year contract extension in August 2018, keeping him at the club until summer 2020. He scored once during this period and demonstrated leadership qualities, occasionally stepping up in the absence of regular captain Troy Deeney. In the 2019–20 season, Mariappa played a role in Watford's relegation battle, helping secure Premier League survival with a 17th-place finish, but was released on 31 July 2020 as part of post-season squad changes. Overall, his second stint yielded 93 appearances and 1 goal. Reflecting on his departure, Mariappa expressed gratitude in an emotional statement, noting, "Even though my time didn't end the way I would have wanted it to I'll always be truly grateful," highlighting his enduring connection to the club.Bristol City
Following his release by Watford in the summer of 2020, Adrian Mariappa signed for Championship club Bristol City on a free transfer on 11 November 2020, agreeing an initial short-term deal until January 2021 to bolster the team's defensive options amid an injury crisis. Mariappa's contract was extended until the end of the 2020-21 season in January 2021, allowing him to feature regularly in defensive rotations as a centre-back. He made 25 appearances in the Championship during the campaign, starting 19 matches and accumulating 1,751 minutes, often competing for places alongside established defenders like Tomas Kalas and Nathan Baker. His experience from over 160 Premier League games provided leadership in training and supported squad depth, helping to guide younger players while contributing to Bristol City's mid-table finish. Mariappa did not score any goals during his time at Ashton Gate and was released by the club upon the expiry of his contract in May 2021.Macarthur FC
On 28 November 2021, Macarthur FC announced the signing of Adrian Mariappa on a deal through the end of the 2022–23 A-League Men season, bringing in the experienced centre-back as a marquee defender to bolster the team's backline following his release from Bristol City. The move marked Mariappa's first venture overseas after a career spent entirely in English football, where he had amassed over 400 appearances across the Premier League and Championship. Mariappa made his debut for Macarthur on 12 December 2021 in a 2–1 home win against Western United, starting at centre-back and contributing to a solid defensive display in his initial outing in the A-League. During the 2021–22 season, he established himself as a key player in the back three, making 19 appearances across all competitions and providing stability to a side that finished sixth in the regular season before exiting in the elimination finals. His experience from English football proved valuable in adapting to the league's pace and physicality, with Mariappa noting the warmer climate and relaxed lifestyle in Sydney as a positive contrast to the UK, aiding his quick integration into the team environment. In the 2022–23 season, Mariappa continued as a regular starter early on, undertaking leadership duties alongside captain Mark Milligan by mentoring younger defenders and organizing the backline during matches. He scored three goals for the club, including in a 3–3 away draw with Central Coast Mariners on 10 February 2022. Mariappa departed Macarthur on 30 August 2022, signing a short-term deal with English League One side Burton Albion, with the move allowing him to return closer to family amid ongoing career opportunities. Reflecting on his time in Australia, he highlighted the cultural shift—such as embracing barbecues and beach culture—as enriching, though the distance from loved ones factored into his decision to leave. Over his tenure, spanning 19 appearances and 3 goals in total, Mariappa helped Macarthur to mid-table finishes, including a push toward the playoffs in his debut campaign.Burton Albion
Mariappa returned to English football on 7 October 2022, signing a short-term contract with League One club Burton Albion following his departure from Australian side Macarthur FC. The 36-year-old defender was brought in to bolster Burton's defence amid a challenging start to the 2022–23 season, with the club sitting in the relegation zone. His extensive experience, including over 300 appearances for Watford and time in the Premier League with Crystal Palace, was highlighted as a key asset to provide stability and leadership to a young backline. During his four-month spell, Mariappa featured in 12 matches across all competitions, starting 11 and playing primarily as a centre-back. He contributed to improved defensive organization, helping Burton secure vital points in a relegation battle, including a clean sheet in a 1–0 league victory over Cheltenham Town on 22 October 2022. His most notable moment came on 19 November 2022, when he scored a dramatic stoppage-time equaliser in a 2–2 draw against league leaders Plymouth Argyle, heading home a corner to rescue a point and end a five-year goal drought in English football. This performance underscored his maturity and composure under pressure, drawing from his recent Australian stint to mentor younger teammates. In early January 2023, Burton offered Mariappa a new contract extension amid his positive impact. However, he departed the club on 18 January 2023 by mutual consent, having made eight league appearances and scored once. His exit came as Burton stabilized, eventually finishing 16th in League One and avoiding relegation.Salford City
Mariappa joined Salford City on 23 March 2023, signing a short-term contract until the end of the 2022–23 season after leaving Burton Albion. The 36-year-old defender made an immediate impact, featuring in seven League Two matches and both legs of the play-off semi-finals against Stockport County, where Salford were eliminated on penalties after a 2–2 aggregate draw. His experience from over 300 EFL appearances helped stabilize the backline during the run-in, contributing to a seventh-place finish and qualification for the post-season. On 10 July 2023, Mariappa extended his stay with a new one-year deal for the 2023–24 campaign, becoming a key figure in the defense. He made 32 appearances in League Two that season, logging over 2,400 minutes and providing one assist, as Salford navigated a challenging year to secure 20th place and survival with a final-day victory over Forest Green Rovers. As the oldest outfield player in the squad at 37, Mariappa offered veteran guidance to younger defenders like Theo Vassell and Curtis Tilt, drawing on his Premier League background to foster resilience amid injuries and form dips. Mariappa's leadership was evident in high-stakes moments, including a red card in a 1–0 loss to Walsall in March 2024 that tested the team's depth. His prior captaincy at Burton Albion informed his role in organizing the back four, helping Salford concede just 11 goals in their last 10 games to clinch safety. On 21 May 2024, following the conclusion of his contract, Salford City announced Mariappa's departure alongside midfielders Stevie Mallan and Connor McLennan, thanking him for 46 appearances across all competitions during his 14-month spell.Wealdstone
On 27 June 2024, Adrian Mariappa signed a one-year deal with National League club Wealdstone, becoming the team's captain after leaving Salford City at the end of the previous season. In the 2024-25 season, the 38-year-old defender featured in 43 appearances across all competitions, anchoring the backline with his experience and providing leadership to a squad blending youth and veterans. He started the majority of matches, focusing on solid defensive organization that helped Wealdstone achieve respectable home form, though the team finished 20th in the league. Key highlights included the club's FA Cup campaign, where they progressed to the second round by defeating Gosport Borough 4-1 in qualifying and Grimsby Town 1-0 in the first round proper, before a 2-0 loss to Wycombe Wanderers; Mariappa played in all three ties, underscoring his reliability in high-stakes fixtures. Despite occasional absences due to minor injuries, Mariappa managed his fitness adeptly through disciplined diet and recovery routines, allowing him to maintain consistent performances at an advanced age for a non-league defender. Mariappa's tenure ended on 23 June 2025, when Wealdstone announced his departure to pursue new opportunities, praising his professionalism and on-field impact during a transitional year for the club.St Albans City
On 30 October 2025, Adrian Mariappa signed for St Albans City as a free agent, joining the Isthmian League Premier Division club at the seventh tier of English football. The move came after his departure from Wealdstone, where he had served as captain, allowing him to extend his playing career at age 39 without an official retirement. Mariappa debuted for St Albans City on 1 November 2025 in the FA Cup first round proper, starting as a centre-back in a 6-0 defeat to Burton Albion at the Pirelli Stadium. The signing was timed specifically for this match against his former club, bolstering the defence ahead of the 2025-26 season fixtures. As of November 2025, this marked his sole appearance. Balancing his role as a veteran defender, Mariappa continues to serve as assistant manager for Watford's under-21 team, integrating non-league playing commitments with his coaching responsibilities. St Albans City director of football Harry Wheeler praised the addition, noting that Mariappa "will bring a great deal to this squad, both on and off the field" and serve as a mentor to younger players. This dual involvement underscores his ongoing dedication to football at the professional and semi-professional levels into late 2025.International career
Youth career
Mariappa earned his first international experience with England's youth teams, representing the nation at the U16 level in 2002, U17 in 2003, U18 in 2004, U19 in 2005, and U21 from 2006 to 2009, accumulating 22 caps in total. His involvement included key tournaments such as the 2005 European Under-19 Championship qualifiers, where he helped anchor the defense. Mariappa made his U21 debut against Romania in 2007 and featured regularly thereafter, with performance highlights including multiple clean sheets and consistent call-ups that reflected his reliability amid varying form at club level with Watford. Although these youth appearances demonstrated his potential on the international stage, they did not bind him to England for senior football under FIFA eligibility rules, which allow players to change association prior to senior caps. Born in London to Jamaican parents, Mariappa opted to embrace his heritage, accepting his first senior call-up to the Jamaica national team in May 2012. This decision paved the way for his committed representation of the Reggae Boyz, where he would go on to earn over 70 caps.[11][9]Senior career
Mariappa received his first senior call-up to the Jamaica national team in May 2012, having previously represented England at youth levels due to his birth in London but eligible for Jamaica through his mother's heritage.[12] He made his debut three days later on May 18, 2012, starting in a friendly against Guyana at Catherine Hall Stadium in Montego Bay, which Jamaica won 1–0 courtesy of a goal from Luton Shelton.[13][14] Over 11 years, Mariappa accumulated 72 caps for Jamaica between 2012 and 2023, scoring one goal. His only international goal arrived during 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying, in a 2–3 home defeat to Nicaragua on 4 September 2015, where he headed in from a corner in the 78th minute.[15] A dependable centre-back, he featured regularly in defensive setups, contributing to Jamaica's improved regional standing and earning recognition as a stalwart in the backline.[7] Mariappa played a pivotal role in Jamaica's successful CONCACAF Gold Cup campaigns, appearing in all six matches as the Reggae Boyz reached the 2015 final—their first since 1991—before losing 3–1 to Mexico. He repeated the feat in 2017, starting every game en route to the final, a 2–1 defeat to the United States, after defeating Mexico in the semi-finals. In the 2019 edition, he contributed to the group's second-place finish before a 1–0 quarterfinal exit against Mexico. He also featured in the 2021 Gold Cup, helping Jamaica reach the quarter-finals. Additionally, Mariappa was involved in multiple FIFA World Cup qualifying efforts, including the 2022 intercontinental playoff against Panama, where Jamaica lost 1–0 on aggregate in March 2022. His last international match was on 9 September 2023 against Honduras, after which he retired from international duty.[16][17]Coaching career
Watford Academy
Adrian Mariappa was appointed as assistant coach for Watford's Under-21 team on August 6, 2025, marking his return to the club where he had a distinguished playing career spanning over a decade and nearly 350 appearances.[18][19] In this role, Mariappa supports head coach Charlie Daniels by leading training sessions, contributing to player development through individualized skill enhancement, and aiding in match preparation with tactical analysis drawn from his extensive professional experience.[18][9] His responsibilities emphasize daily practices for youth prospects, focusing on building technical and mental resilience to bridge the gap to senior football.[9] Mariappa integrates closely with the academy staff, including director Richard Johnson, who praised his appointment for the positive influence of his character on players and colleagues.[18] He leverages his background as a centre-back, with over 20 years in professional football including 72 caps for Jamaica, to specialize in defensive coaching, teaching positioning, reading the game, and recovery tactics to emerging defenders.[18][9] Early in the 2025-26 season, under Mariappa's involvement, the Watford U21 team has shown mixed results in the Professional Development League, recording 6 wins, 4 draws, and 5 losses from 15 matches as of November 19, 2025, highlighted by a 6-0 victory over Colchester United on November 4 and a 3-1 win against Bristol City on November 17.[20] This performance reflects a solid start with emphasis on high-scoring wins amid competitive fixtures.[20]Other coaching roles
In addition to his role at Watford's academy, Mariappa has pursued advanced coaching qualifications to broaden his expertise in the field. He obtained his UEFA A Licence in 2025, completing the course through UEFA's official program, which equips coaches with advanced tactical, technical, and managerial skills for professional environments.[21][9] This certification builds on his earlier UEFA B Licence, pursued during his playing days, and aligns with the Football Association's (FA) coaching framework, incorporating FA-endorsed modules on player development and match analysis.[22] In September 2025, he graduated from the PFA Business School, earning certification in football leadership and business management to support sustainable career transitions for players. Mariappa has expressed a strong interest in contributing to the Jamaica national team program following his full retirement from playing. In an October 2025 interview, he highlighted his desire to give back to the Reggae Boyz, drawing on his 72 caps and experience from World Cup qualifiers and CONCACAF tournaments to mentor emerging talent.[9] As of November 2025, Mariappa continues to balance coaching commitments with part-time playing, having signed with Isthmian League Premier Division side St Albans City in late October without an official retirement announcement. This dual involvement allows him to apply coaching insights directly to his on-field leadership while maintaining fitness for potential non-league appearances.[9][23]Personal life
Heritage and family
Adrian Mariappa was born in Harrow, London, England, on 3 October 1986, to a Jamaican mother and a Fijian father, giving him a dual heritage that has shaped his cultural identity.[24][25] This mixed background made him eligible to represent England, Jamaica, or Fiji at the international level, and he ultimately chose to play for Jamaica, debuting in 2012.[25] His father's upbringing in Neasden among Jamaican communities introduced Mariappa to reggae music early on, influencing his personal tastes and fostering a connection to Caribbean culture despite his Fijian paternal roots.[26] Mariappa shares his life with his fiancée and is a father to four children, prioritizing their well-being amid his professional transitions.[27] His family provided crucial support during career moves, including his 2021 relocation to Australia to join Macarthur FC, a decision influenced by relatives on his father's side living in Sydney.[27] He has described the move as a family-oriented choice, stating, “Being in Sydney, where I have family on my dad’s side, we thought, ‘Let’s just go for it’,” which allowed for a more settled lifestyle near the beach while continuing his career.[27] Mariappa maintains strong ties to the Jamaican community through his international career and personal friendships, exemplified by his emotional tribute to former footballer and close friend Marvin Morgan, who died in December 2021.[27] Morgan, a fellow Watford alumnus, offered guidance during Mariappa's Australian move, and Mariappa has spoken of the profound loss, noting how it prompted reflection on family and legacy shortly after arriving Down Under.[27] This bond underscores Mariappa's emphasis on supportive relationships within his extended network.[27]Lifestyle
Mariappa adopted a vegan diet at the start of the 2017–18 season after researching its potential benefits for performance and health, a change he has maintained consistently since. He credits this plant-based approach with enhancing his recovery times and contributing to his professional longevity, particularly during his stint at Salford City where, at age 39, he reported improved physical resilience and fewer injuries compared to earlier in his career.[28][29] His daily routines emphasize disciplined training and recovery protocols, including structured sessions that support both his playing commitments at St Albans City and coaching duties at Watford's academy, while prioritizing rest to sustain work-life balance. In September 2025, Mariappa graduated from the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) Business School.[9] Family support plays a key role in upholding these habits, allowing him to integrate personal well-being into his demanding schedule. The sudden death of his close friend and fellow footballer Marvin Morgan in December 2021 deeply influenced Mariappa's views on mental health, leading him to openly discuss the emotional challenges of grief and the necessity of building resilience amid professional pressures. In reflections shared shortly after, he described struggling to contain breakdowns during training the day following the news, underscoring the fragility of life and the value of seeking support to process such losses.[27] Among his hobbies, he actively shares insights into his vegan lifestyle, training, and family moments on social media, maintaining an Instagram account where he promotes plant-based living and eco-friendly initiatives like sustainable football boots.Career statistics
Club
The following table shows Adrian Mariappa's league appearances and goals for each club in his career (as of 19 November 2025).[30][4]| Club | Seasons | League | Apps | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Watford | 2005–2012 | Championship / Premier League | 216 | 4 |
| 2016–2020 | Premier League / Championship | 81 | 0 | |
| Reading | 2012–2013 | Premier League | 29 | 1 |
| Crystal Palace | 2013–2016 | Premier League | 39 | 1 |
| Bristol City | 2020–2021 | Championship | 25 | 0 |
| Macarthur FC | 2021–2022 | A-League | 19 | 3 |
| Burton Albion | 2022–2023 | League One | 8 | 1 |
| Salford City | 2022–2024 | League Two | 39 | 0 |
| Wealdstone | 2024 | National League | 9 | 0 |
| St Albans City | 2025– | National League South | 4 | 0 |
| Career total | 460 | 10 |
Watford
Detailed statistics for Mariappa's appearances with Watford (all competitions):| Season | League Apps | League Goals | FA Cup | League Cup | Other | Total Apps | Total Goals |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2005–06 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 5 | 0 |
| 2006–07 | 19 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 22 | 0 |
| 2007–08 | 25 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 28 | 0 |
| 2008–09 | 39 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 42 | 1 |
| 2009–10 | 46 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 0 | 50 | 1 |
| 2010–11 | 45 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 49 | 1 |
| 2011–12 | 39 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 40 | 1 |
| 2016–17 | 7 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 8 | 0 |
| 2017–18 | 28 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 30 | 0 |
| 2018–19 | 26 | 0 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 30 | 0 |
| 2019–20 | 20 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 21 | 0 |
| Total | 297 | 4 | 14 | 12 | 2 | 325 | 4 |
Crystal Palace
Detailed statistics for Mariappa's appearances with Crystal Palace (all competitions):| Season | League Apps | League Goals | FA Cup | League Cup | Other | Total Apps | Total Goals |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013–14 | 24 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 27 | 1 |
| 2014–15 | 12 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 15 | 0 |
| 2015–16 | 3 | 0 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 7 | 0 |
| Total | 39 | 1 | 7 | 3 | 0 | 49 | 1 |
Salford City
Detailed statistics for Mariappa's appearances with Salford City (all competitions, 2022–2024):| Season | League Apps | League Goals | FA Cup | League Cup | Other | Total Apps | Total Goals |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022–23 | 7 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 10 | 0 |
| 2023–24 | 32 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 35 | 0 |
| Total | 39 | 0 | 3 | 1 | 2 | 45 | 0 |
International
Mariappa earned 73 caps for Jamaica, scoring 2 goals, from his debut on 19 May 2012 against Guyana to his last appearance on 13 September 2023 against Haiti.[17][7]| Competition | Apps | Goals |
|---|---|---|
| Friendlies | 25 | 1 |
| CONCACAF Gold Cup | 18 | 0 |
| World Cup Qualifiers | 15 | 1 |
| CONCACAF Nations League | 12 | 0 |
| Other (e.g., Caribbean Cup) | 3 | 0 |
| Total | 73 | 2 |