Eddie Howe heaps praise on ‘very conscientious’ Newcastle United star who ‘never moans’

Eddie Howe has praised Jacob Murphy after the Newcastle United winger scored his first goal in over a year during Saturday’s huge win over Brentford.

The 27-year-old followed up his first start of the Premier League season at Fulham by scoring the second goal as the Magpies hit the Bees for five.

Murphy retained his place despite the return of Allan Saint-Maximin, and will hope to do so again when Newcastle face Manchester United this weekend.

The former Norwich City man has rarely been a starter under Howe, although the Magpies head coach tends to use him frequently from the bench.

For some players, such a role can be hard to accept but Murphy’s “attitude and versatility” hasn’t gone unnoticed by Howe and his coaching staff.

“It was very important,” Howe said when asked about Murphy’s goal. “Everyone’s different and needs different things.

“I think Jacob is a hugely talented lad and is really appreciated by me, the players and the coaching team due to his attitude and versatility.

“He’s a player that will play anywhere for the team. He’ll never moan or have any negative reaction to being moved, so I can’t praise him enough for that team ethic.

“But it’s great to see him individually do well and come to the fore. He’s a brilliant trainer, very conscientious and I’m really pleased for him.”

Murphy was replaced by Joelinton in the 66th-minute against Brentford before Saint-Maximin featured for the first time in four matches after recovering from a hamstring injury.

Saint-Maximin’s comeback has provided strength in depth with Miguel Almiron in form and Ryan Fraser also fit and available.