Classy 28-word message as Newcastle United secure 'exciting' long-term deal

Alex Murphy has signed a new long-term contract at Newcastle United. (Photo by Alex Davidson/Getty Images) (Photo by Alex Davidson/Getty Images)Alex Murphy has signed a new long-term contract at Newcastle United. (Photo by Alex Davidson/Getty Images) (Photo by Alex Davidson/Getty Images)
Alex Murphy has signed a new long-term contract at Newcastle United. (Photo by Alex Davidson/Getty Images) (Photo by Alex Davidson/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Newcastle United have tied the highly rated defender down to a new long-term deal.

Galway United have congratulated Alex Murphy after the defender penned a new long-term contract at Newcastle United.

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Murphy made 32 appearances for the League of Ireland side before being snapped up by the Magpies just under two years ago.

This season, the 19-year-old has gone on to make his Premier League debut after coming on as a substitute against Chelsea in November. He was also handed minutes against Sheffield United last month.

The defender, who can operate at left-back or centre-back, has been involved in the first-team squad on 19 occasions this term having impressed in pre-season at the Premier League Summer Series and Sela Cup.

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And it’s clear Galway have been keeping a close eye on his progress after reacting to his new contract, which was announced by Newcastle on Monday afternoon.

Posting on X, formerly known as Twitter, Galway said: “A huge congratulations to former Galway United Star, Alex Murphy who has signed a new long term contract with @NUFC. We're all cheering you on from Galway Alex!! #ItsATribalThing”

Reflecting on his new deal, Murphy said: “I’m absolutely delighted to sign a new deal here and secure my future with the club.

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“I’ve loved every minute since I first signed nearly two years ago. I’ve been fortunate to work with some brilliant players and coaches - with both the Academy and the first team - and I’m really grateful for the opportunities that have come my way.

“It’s an exciting time to be a young player at this club - we can all see there is a pathway from the number of players who have made their first-team debuts this season. I just need to keep working hard and hopefully I can build on the progress I’ve made so far.”

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe added: “I’m really pleased to see Alex sign a new long-term contract here. It’s well deserved recognition for the work he’s put in over the course of the season.

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“He had a great pre-season in America and has gone from strength to strength since, earning himself a Premier League debut and a regular place in our matchday squads.

“We rate Alex highly - he applies himself brilliantly every day and he knows if he continues working hard that further opportunities will come his way.”

Meanwhile academy Director Steve Harper said: “Everyone at the Academy is delighted to see the progress Alex has made and this contract is a fitting reward for his attitude and hard work.

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“Identifying Alex’s potential was excellent work by our recruitment team. His development since joining, initially with the under-21 group and subsequently within the first-team environment, demonstrates the pathway that exists here at Newcastle United.”

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