‘Really impressed’ - Surprise pick named alongside £103m duo as Newcastle United’s key man
Former Blackburn Rovers and Chelsea striker Chris Sutton has hailed Jacob Murphy for his role in Newcastle United’s recent turnaround.
Signed in 2017 by Rafa Benitez following Premier League promotion, the 29-year-old has endured a roller-coaster ride at St James’ Park. From spells as a bit-part player to out on loan, Murphy has rarely been first pick on the team sheet since his arrival almost eight years ago.
But a resurgence under Eddie Howe has resulted in him becoming a handy utility player on Tyneside. Recent weeks have seen that status elevated further, with Murphy starring to answer Newcastle’s right-wing prayers.
Many supporters were screaming for the Toon hierarchy to bolster the options on the right flank last summer. Murphy and Almiron were United’s options before the Saudi-backed takeover and nothing has changed more than three years on.
However, that desperation has quelled somewhat due to Murphy’s revival. The winger has eight goal contributions in as many games to make the position his own, forming a devastating relationship with Alexander Isak.
The duo have combined for seven goals across all competitions this season - more than any other combination. Speaking to BBC Sport, ex-Celtic striker Sutton ranked Murphy alongside Isak and Anthony Gordon when discussing Newcastle’s form.
“It is a long way from Bromley to Newcastle but this is a great tie for them, even if they are going to end up being beaten,” he told BBC Sport while predicting a 3-0 home win. “Newcastle have won seven in a row in all competitions now and, while (Alexander) Isak and Anthony Gordon are understandably getting a lot of attention, I’ve been really impressed by Jacob Murphy. Eddie Howe will make lots of changes but I don’t see it making any difference.”